Which of the following instructions is given to the patient for the AP lumbo-pelvic view?

When preparing a patient for the AP lumbo-pelvic view, the recommended instruction is to breathe in, breathe out, and hold. This technique helps to ensure that the abdominal cavity is in its normal position during the imaging process, which can minimize the risk of movement and improve the quality of the radiograph.

Instructing the patient to breathe in and then breathe out prepares the diaphragm by letting it rise, thereby allowing the abdominal organs to return to a more neutral position. When the patient holds their breath after this exhalation, it stabilizes their position, reducing motion blur from breathing during the exposure. This helps to obtain a clearer image of the lumbosacral region and pelvis.

In contrast, other instructions like just holding the breath or taking a deep breath may not effectively prepare the patient in the same way, as they might lead to a less optimal imaging technique. Holding the breath without the preliminary instructions to breathe in and out could cause tension and discomfort for the patient, potentially leading to unwanted movement.