If an unstable patient needs a xray, it should either be done portable, wait until the patient is stable to do the study, or a nurse should accompany them for the study. As a RT, you're responsibility is to maintain safety and be a patient advocate. If at ANY time you feel a patient is unstable or in trouble, DEMAND the patients nurse come help you!! Nurses and RTs need to work as a team! I learned this recently after I switched from 10 yrs of ER nursing to Radiology nursing. I have also gained a HUGE amount of respect for all RTs!!! Hope that helps!