Which positioning factor can lead to a mistaken lateral view of the forearm?

The identification of a mistaken lateral view of the forearm is closely tied to the positioning of the hand during the imaging process. When the hand is not placed in a true lateral position, the resulting orientation can distort the appearance of the forearm in the image. For a proper lateral view, the hand must be positioned so that the radial and ulnar sides of the forearm are equidistant and parallel to the imaging plate.

If the hand is not adequately aligned or rotated, it may appear foreshortened or reveal overlapping bones, presenting the forearm at an incorrect angle. This misalignment can lead to confusion in interpretation, making it appear as though a lateral view has been obtained when in fact, the anatomy may be misrepresented.

The other factors, while they may impact image quality or field inclusion, do not directly correlate with the accurate identification of the lateral orientation of the forearm in the same way that improper hand positioning does. Thus, ensuring that the hand is in a true lateral position is crucial for obtaining a correct lateral view of the forearm.