What practice should a radiologic technologist follow during a radiographic examination?

During a radiographic examination, using the minimum radiation necessary is a fundamental principle that radiologic technologists must follow to minimize patient exposure to radiation. This practice is based on the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, which is designed to ensure that radiation doses are kept as low as possible while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information.

By using the minimum radiation necessary, technologists can effectively reduce the potential risks associated with radiation exposure, such as tissue damage or increased cancer risk, while still ensuring that high-quality images are captured for accurate diagnosis. This approach emphasizes the importance of careful planning and technique optimization to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients without unnecessary radiation exposure.

Other options, while they might have some relevance, do not directly reflect the core practice of radiation safety in radiography. For example, placing a contact shield on the gonads could be part of a radiation protection strategy, but it should not take precedence over the overall goal of minimizing radiation exposure. Removing clothing from patients is not typically a practice that would reduce radiation exposure and could cause unnecessary anxiety. Avoiding communication with the patient can hinder the patient’s understanding and comfort during the procedure, which is counterproductive in a healthcare setting.