Question

a patient arrives at the medical imaging department for a facial bones series after being hit in the head by a softball. the patient comes to you with a cervical collar, but it is apparent that the collar may not be needed because the patient is turning their head to talk with you as the examination starts. a radiologic and imaging sciences professional would
remove the cervical collar after inspecting the first image since it appears to be unnecessary.
complete the facial bone images with the collar in place using the positioning flexibility of your equipment.
call the emergency department nurse and ask her to remove the cervical collar.
immobilize the patient’s head and then remove the cervical collar so it’s not in the image.

Explanation:

In radiologic practice, when a patient has a cervical collar (even if movement seems okay), removing it without proper assessment (by non - radiologic staff or without ensuring spine safety) is risky. Using equipment flexibility to take facial bone images with the collar on avoids compromising cervical spine safety. Other options risk spine injury (removing collar without proper check, immobilizing/asking others inappropriately).

Answer:

B. complete the facial bone images with the collar in place using the positioning flexibility of your equipment.