Essential Elements of Patient Positioning: A Review for the Radiology Nurse

The purpose of this article is to provide a review for the radiology nurse on the essential elements of patient positioning for radiology procedures. Proper positioning is important for attaining a quality diagnostic image, and ensuring patient safety and comfort. Recent advances in technology often necessitate lengthier and more complex procedures. In general, patients presenting for radiology procedures are older, more obese, and suffering from more comorbidities compared with patients presenting 10 years ago. Awkward positioning on hard surface areas and lengthy procedures, combined with complex patients, increase the risk for negative respiratory events, cardiovascular compromise, increased intracranial pressure, and nerve and soft tissue injury. Injury and complications, especially in vulnerable populations, may be avoided through thoughtful consideration and adjustments while positioning patients.