It is important to focus the examination in upon the correct area. If in doubt ask the radiographers for their opinion.
Always ask for two views, i.e. anteroposterior (AP) and a modified axial. The modified axial is preferable to the often used Y view as it is less likely to be misinterpreted.
Radiographic findings should always be correlated with the clinical findings. If there is strong concern that a joint or bone injury exists, but the radiographs appear normal, the patient should still be treated on clinical grounds.