- There are more advanced pulmonary function tests beyond the scope of this lecture.
- Chest x-rays are not routinely done unless otherwise indicated due to fever or suspected consolidation on physical exam.
- In most cases of an acute asthma attack, the chest x-ray results will minimally change your treatment approach.[4]
- A common finding with chest x-rays would include hyperinflation with mucous plugging resulting in atelectasis.
- Other tests, such as complete blood counts and arterial blood gases, should be used when indicated. (Fever, respiratory failure, hypoxia)
Below is an example of a chest x-ray of lungs that are hyper-inflated and that have a flattened diaphragm.
"MedicEd".com, Inc.
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