The practical imaging aspects of the X-ray procedure: Introduction

The practical imaging aspects of the X-ray procedure

1. Introduction

Mobile radiography is an extremely useful tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients where transfer to the hospital radiology department may be problematic. Undertaking mobile radiography of the thoracic region has been shown to be technically feasible, generating suitable levels of image quality with the added advantage of removing the need for patient transportation¹. There are, however, additional challenges that can present when undertaking mobile radiography and these include differences in radiation protection, communication, infection control and moving and handling to name only a few. The COVID-19 pandemic² has also generated additional challenges with regards to mobile radiography ( Figure 1), these include but are not limited to special infection control considerations and managing an increase in the number and range of mobile examinations being requested.

**Figure 1.**Initial mobile chest X-ray of a 69-year-old female with early radiographic signs of the COVID-19 virus (bilateral, peripheral ground glass and interstitial opacification). Image courtesy of Dr Nick Woznitza, London.

Next: 2. Patient identification ►