How should a patient's hand be positioned for a lateral thumb radiograph?

For a lateral thumb radiograph, the ideal positioning involves the fingers being curled clear from overlapping the thumb. This positioning is crucial because it ensures that the thumb is fully visible without obstruction from the other fingers, allowing for a clear, unobstructed view of the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the thumb. Proper positioning minimizes overlap and provides a true lateral representation, which is essential for accurate assessment and diagnosis of any abnormalities.

In contrast, if the fingers were extended over the thumb, as suggested in one of the incorrect options, it could obscure key anatomical details and diminish the quality of the radiograph. Additionally, placing the hand in a fist position might distort the natural alignment of the thumb, leading to difficulty in interpreting the radiograph. Lastly, positioning the thumb flat on the receptor could also compromise the lateral view needed, as it may not depict the thumb's alignment correctly in relation to the rest of the hand.