Radiologist how-to

How to Read a Chest X-Ray Systematically

A system prevents misses.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

A system prevents misses. In short: check; review; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check patient and image quality.

  2. Review tubes and lines.

  3. Check airway and lungs.

  4. Check heart and mediastinum.

  5. Check bones and soft tissue.

  6. Compare to prior films.

Safety reminders for radiologists

  • Follow radiation safety and ALARA
  • Screen for MRI safety
  • Check contrast allergies and kidney function
  • Use sterile technique for procedures

PACS · CT · MRI · Contrast · Mammogram · Fluoroscopy: see the full radiologist glossary.

More radiologist how-to guides

Learn this in Radiologist trainingTake the practice test
Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz