A chest X-ray is standardly performed in a standing position, provided the patient's general condition permits, with X-rays entering from the patient's back and exiting through the front (posteroanterior - PA position). If the patient cannot stand, an anteroposterior (AP) position may be preferred, taken in a supine position (lying down), with X-rays entering from the front and exiting through the back.
In line with specific diagnostic needs, additional views such as lateral X-rays to obtain side views of the lungs, or lordotic position X-rays to evaluate the subclavian areas or lung apices, can also be performed.