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RAD 100 Final Review
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is diagnostic yield? | The amount of useful diagnostic information obtained from an imaging examination. |
| How can a technologist improve diagnostic yield? | By using correct positioning, exposure factors, collimation, and patient instructions to produce a diagnostic-quality image. |
| What is diagnostic efficiency? | Obtaining the necessary diagnostic information with the least possible radiation exposure, time, cost, and patient discomfort. |
| How are diagnostic yield and diagnostic efficiency different? | Diagnostic yield focuses on the information obtained, while diagnostic efficiency considers how safely and effectively that information is obtained. |
| What is the technologist’s responsibility before operating radiographic equipment? | Inspect the equipment, verify the examination, select the correct technique, position the patient, and follow radiation-safety procedures. |
| What are the main components of an X-ray imaging system? | The control console, high-voltage generator, X-ray tube, collimator, patient table or upright bucky, and image receptor. |
| What is the purpose of the X-ray tube? | It converts electrical energy into X-rays and heat. |
| What does kilovoltage peak (kVp) control? | The energy and penetrating ability of the X-ray beam; it also affects image contrast and patient dose(quality). |
| What does milliamperage (mA) control? | The number of electrons flowing through the X-ray tube and therefore the quantity of X-rays produced. |
| What does exposure time control? | How long X-rays are produced during an exposure. |
| What does mAs represent? | The product of milliamperage and exposure time; it primarily controls the quantity of radiation reaching the image receptor. |
| What is automatic exposure control (AEC)? | A system that automatically ends the exposure when enough radiation reaches the image receptor. |
| Why must the correct AEC chamber be selected? | Selecting the wrong chamber may cause the image to be overexposed or underexposed and increase the chance of a repeat. |
| What is the purpose of collimation? | To limit the X-ray beam to the area of interest, reduce patient dose, and decrease scatter radiation. |
| What is ALARA? | “As Low As Reasonably Achievable,” meaning radiation exposure should be kept as low as possible while still producing a diagnostic image. |
| What are the three basic principles of radiation protection? | Time, distance, and shielding. |
| How does increasing distance improve radiation safety? | Radiation intensity decreases as distance from the source increases, following the inverse square law. |
| Why is correct patient identification important? | It prevents the wrong patient or wrong examination from being performed and protects patient safety. |
| How should a radiologic technologist identify a patient? | Use at least two identifiers, such as the patient’s full name and date of birth. |
| How are the needs of inpatients and outpatients different? | Inpatients may be sicker and require help with mobility, equipment, or monitoring, while outpatients are usually more independent and visit for scheduled procedures. |
| Why is effective patient communication important? | It reduces anxiety, improves cooperation, prevents errors, and helps produce better-quality images. |
| How should a technologist communicate with a pediatric patient? | Use simple, age-appropriate language, demonstrate when possible, remain calm, and involve a parent or guardian appropriately. |
| How should a technologist communicate with an older adult? | Speak clearly, allow extra time, verify understanding, and accommodate hearing, vision, mobility, or cognitive limitations. |
| What is the best approach when communicating with a patient who has limited English proficiency? | Use a qualified medical interpreter and speak directly to the patient using clear, simple language. |
| What precautions may be needed when imaging an older adult? | Provide fall prevention, careful transfers, extra positioning support, warmth, and protection for fragile skin and bones. |
| What should a technologist do if a patient cannot perform the standard position? | Adapt the position safely, communicate with the patient, use available supports, and obtain the best diagnostic image possible without causing harm. |