How does proper patient positioning affect a DXA scan?

• A. It is necessary for patient comfort only
• B. It ensures accurate measurements and may enhance patient safety
• C. It reduces equipment wear and tear
• D. It is irrelevant to the accuracy of the scan

Answer: (B)

Proper patient positioning during a DXA scan is crucial for ensuring accurate measurements and enhancing patient safety. When patients are positioned correctly, it allows the DXA system to capture precise images of the areas being assessed, typically the lumbar spine and femur. Accurate positioning minimizes the potential for artifacts—unwanted anomalies that can skew results—which can arise from improper alignment of the patient relative to the scanner.

Furthermore, correct positioning not only enhances the accuracy of the measurements but also contributes to patient safety. For example, a stable position can help prevent the patient from falling or moving unexpectedly during the scan, which can lead to incorrect data or even injuries. It is therefore essential for both the quality of the scan and the overall safety of the procedure that patients are positioned correctly.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of thorough training for operators not only to achieve high-quality diagnostic results but also to prioritize the well-being of the patient throughout the scanning process.