To correct an elongated film image, what action should be taken?

To correct an elongated film image, increasing the vertical angulation is an effective action. When the vertical angulation is too low, it can lead to an image that appears elongated because the X-ray beam does not hit the anatomical structure perpendicularly. By increasing the vertical angulation, the X-ray beam is directed more perpendicular to the area of interest, which helps to produce a more accurately proportioned image. This approach counteracts the distortion caused by inadequate angulation, resulting in a more accurate representation of the anatomy being examined.

Adjusting the exposure time, changing the film type, or decreasing the vertical angulation would not effectively address the elongation issue, as these factors are not directly related to the angulation of the X-ray beam in relation to the film.