Picture perfect: Mastering the art of radiographic positioning
Tracks
Stream Three - Plaza P3 & P4
| Wednesday, March 25, 2026 |
| 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
| Plaza P3 & P4 |
Overview
Rebecca Brangwynne-Smith
Speaker
Rebecca Brangwynne-Smith
Queensland Veterinary Specialists
Picture perfect: Mastering the art of radiographic positioning
Abstract
Accurate positioning is the foundation of high-quality veterinary radiography. It can mean the difference between a diagnostic image and a repeat exposure. This lecture explores the essential principles of positioning, to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge needed to produce clear, consistent, and safe diagnostic images.
We begin with the basics: understanding radiographic directional terms and how they relate to anatomical planes. This sets the groundwork for clear communication and accurate image labelling. From there, we delve into identifying key anatomical landmarks across different species and body regions, ensuring the area of interest is appropriately centred and collimated every time.
Positioning isn't just about getting the anatomy right, it’s also about protecting the team. This lecture will highlight the critical importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe radiographic practices, with an emphasis on adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles. You will leave with a renewed understanding of how to prioritise both image quality and radiation safety.
Finally, we’ll walk through a practical, step-by-step approach to troubleshooting a poor radiograph. Whether the issue is positioning error, motion artefact, incorrect exposure settings, or poor collimation, you’ll learn how to assess the image, identify what went wrong, and avoid the same issue in future attempts.
We begin with the basics: understanding radiographic directional terms and how they relate to anatomical planes. This sets the groundwork for clear communication and accurate image labelling. From there, we delve into identifying key anatomical landmarks across different species and body regions, ensuring the area of interest is appropriately centred and collimated every time.
Positioning isn't just about getting the anatomy right, it’s also about protecting the team. This lecture will highlight the critical importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe radiographic practices, with an emphasis on adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles. You will leave with a renewed understanding of how to prioritise both image quality and radiation safety.
Finally, we’ll walk through a practical, step-by-step approach to troubleshooting a poor radiograph. Whether the issue is positioning error, motion artefact, incorrect exposure settings, or poor collimation, you’ll learn how to assess the image, identify what went wrong, and avoid the same issue in future attempts.
Biography
BAppSc(Vet Tech) CertIV VN CertIV TAE VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia) RVT
Rebecca graduated from the University of Queensland in 2015 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Veterinary Technology) and a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. She worked in general practice for 6 years prior to diving into specialist nursing. Rebecca has for the surgery department at Queensland Veterinary Specialists since 2020, and her passion for anaesthesia and analgesia has been a driving force throughout her career. Rebecca plays a pivotal role in managing complex surgical cases, ensuring the highest level of patient safety and comfort, and her work is characterised by a meticulous approach to individualised anaesthetic protocols and a commitment to implementing evidence-based practices in pain management.
Rebecca is also deeply invested in education and mentorship, regularly teaching and guiding new graduates and veterinary, veterinary nursing and technology students. She obtained her Certificate V in Training and Assessment through TAFE QLD, and her dedication to sharing knowledge and fostering the next generation of veterinary professionals has made her a respected mentor and educator within the field.
Rebecca is an AVNAT Registered Veterinary Technician, and regularly delivers presentations and training for veterinary nurses and technicians as the Learning & Development Lead at QVS. Rebecca became a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Anesthesia & Analgesia in 2025.
