Which statement best supports reducing unnecessary dose through technique, positioning, and shielding?

• A. Unnecessary exams
• B. Use of appropriate technique, positioning, and shielding
• C. Increase imaging time
• D. Large beam field only

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that exposure should be optimized to achieve a diagnostic image with the least amount of radiation possible. Using appropriate technique, accurate positioning, and shielding directly contributes to that goal. Proper technique means selecting exposure factors that are just enough to produce a clear image—no more, no less—so you minimize dose while maintaining image quality. Accurate positioning targets the area of interest precisely, reducing the chance of repeats due to misalignment or poor coverage, which would otherwise add extra exposure. Shielding protects radiosensitive tissues from scatter and leakage radiation without compromising the diagnostic region being imaged. Together, these practices uphold ALARA, keeping patient dose as low as reasonably achievable.

Unnecessary exams would raise dose because the patient is exposed without a justified need. Increasing imaging time also raises dose, and using a large beam field exposes more tissue than necessary.