What breathing instruction is given to the patient during the AP Thoracic X-ray?

During an anterior-posterior (AP) thoracic X-ray, the correct breathing instruction is to have the patient breathe in and hold their breath. This instruction is crucial because inhaling fully expands the lungs, improving the visibility of the thoracic structures on the radiograph. Holding the breath prevents movement during the exposure, which can blur the image.

When the patient takes a deep breath in, it elevates the diaphragm and provides a clearer view of the lung fields, heart, and the surrounding structures. This technique ensures that the X-ray captured is as informative and detailed as possible, minimizing any artifacts caused by motion.