In which direction should fingers and toes be oriented when viewing radiographic images?

When viewing radiographic images, it is standard practice to position the fingers and toes so they are pointing up toward the ceiling. This positioning allows for a more intuitive and accurate interpretation of the images, as it aligns with the natural orientation of the limbs as the technician would view them in a clinical or anatomical context.

Viewing the appendages in this way helps to minimize confusion regarding left and right identifiers on the image and ensures that anatomical structures are correctly interpreted. It reinforces the idea that the images represent a real-life orientation, where the digits are typically considered in an upright position. Proper orientation is crucial for diagnosis, as it affects the perception of conditions or abnormalities that may be visible in the radiographs.