Table 1

Findings (expected) on daily routine chest radiographs for which ICU physicians and radiologist could score

Abnormality
Comments

Large atelectasis
≥2 lobes
Large infiltrates
≥1 lobe
'Severe' pulmonary congestion

'Severe' pleural effusion

Pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum
Any abnormal air collection
Malposition of oropharyngeal tube
<2 cm from carina or above stem cords
Malposition of intravenous lines
Tip in right atrium or outside lumen (pulmonary artery catheter: tip in right atrium), or change in position
Malposition of intra-aortic balloon pump

Malposition of gastric tube
Tip outside the stomach
Malposition of drains
Displacement >5 cm or outside pleural space

Abnormalities were scored by residents or clinical fellows if expected, and – separately – by radiologist if present. In addition, both requesting physician and radiologist determined whether the (expected) finding was 'old' or 'new' (see text for details). ICU, intensive care unit.

Graat et al. Critical Care 2006 10:R11   doi:10.1186/cc3955