Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

What is another name for an x-ray machine that also provides real-time imaging?

1. Fluoroscope

2. Pneumograph

3. Electrocardiogram

4. Ultrasound

The correct answer is: Fluoroscope

An x-ray machine that provides real-time imaging is indeed referred to as a fluoroscope. This device allows healthcare professionals to visualize the internal structures of the body in motion, which is particularly useful for assessing functions and movements within various organs. Fluoroscopy utilizes a continuous beam of x-rays to capture and display images on a monitor, enabling dynamic observations during procedures such as barium swallows or orthopedic consultations. The other options are distinct medical devices that serve different purposes. A pneumograph measures respiratory airflow, the electrocardiogram records electrical activity of the heart, and ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to create images of soft tissues and organs. Each of these options is specialized for specific diagnostic purposes, differentiating them from the functional capabilities of a fluoroscope.