Read a CXR like a 2nd-year
(or a 1st year) medical student

The way a person reads a chest radiograph (CXR) varies depending on their level of expertise and interest. The way a 2nd-year medical student approaches a CXR is very different from the way a pulmonologist, thoracic surgeon, or thoracic radiologist tackles the case.

As a 2nd-year medical student, you should be looking at radiographs in a systematic way that is appropriate to your level of experience. Do not expect to see findings as quickly as a more experienced reader! This is not a fault, but a normal part of the learning process. The more you practice looking at imaging studies, the better you will get at it.

This site was designed with the collaboration of Nick Smith, BUSM Class of 2016.