Why is it important that the patient stays still during the X-ray procedure?

Staying still during an X-ray procedure is crucial because movement can lead to motion blur in the images produced. When a patient moves, even slightly, the X-ray beam captures multiple positions of the same anatomy, resulting in unclear or distorted images. This lack of clarity can make it difficult for radiologists to accurately diagnose conditions or assess injuries, ultimately impacting patient care.

In X-ray imaging, clarity and detail are vital for identifying fractures, tumors, or other medical conditions. By minimizing motion, high-quality images can be obtained, allowing for a more reliable evaluation by healthcare professionals. Thus, the emphasis on patient stillness is directly connected to the quality of the X-ray results.