What precaution should a physician take when applying inversion stress during radiography?

Wearing a lead apron and gloves serves as an essential precaution during radiographic procedures, especially when applying inversion stress, which may involve manipulating a patient’s position in a way that can increase radiation exposure. The lead apron acts as a barrier to protect the physician's vital organs and reproductive areas from scatter radiation, while gloves ensure that the hands are also shielded from hazardous exposure during the procedure.

The use of protective equipment like lead aprons is a standard protocol to minimize radiation risk in healthcare, thus enhancing safety significantly for healthcare providers. This precaution aligns with the principles of radiation safety, which advocate for the reduction of exposure through the use of protective devices while allowing necessary procedures to proceed safely.

In comparison, using a lead shield is generally more applicable to shielding specific areas of the patient's body rather than protecting the physician. Limiting patient movement is important for obtaining accurate images but does not directly address radiation exposure. Increasing exposure time would inadvertently increase the radiation dose received, which is contrary to the goal of minimizing exposure.