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Radiation Safety Flashcards

7 cards from real ARRT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Radiation Safety flashcards as text

  1. Which radiation weighting factor (wR) applies to X-rays used in CT imaging?

    Answer: 1

    X-rays and gamma rays have a radiation weighting factor of 1, meaning 1 Gy equals 1 Sv.

  2. What is the primary purpose of the CT dose index (CTDI)?

    Answer: To characterize radiation output of a CT scanner independent of patient size

    CTDI characterizes the radiation output of a CT scanner and allows standardized comparison between scanners and protocols.

  3. A patient weighing 300 lbs is scanned using a standard adult protocol. How should the technologist respond?

    Answer: Apply size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) and adjust technique for body habitus

    SSDE accounts for patient size and provides a more accurate dose estimate; technique should be adjusted to match body habitus while maintaining diagnostic quality.

  4. Which of the following best describes the ALARA principle in CT imaging?

    Answer: Keep radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable while maintaining diagnostic image quality

    ALARA means optimizing dose to the lowest level that still yields diagnostically acceptable images for the clinical indication.

  5. The dose length product (DLP) is calculated by multiplying CTDI_vol by which parameter?

    Answer: Scan length (cm)

    DLP = CTDI_vol × scan length (cm), providing a single value that reflects the total radiation energy deposited during the scan.

  6. Which type of shielding is most effective for reducing scattered X-ray radiation outside a CT suite?

    Answer: Lead-lined walls or concrete barriers

    Lead-lined walls and concrete barriers are the standard structural shielding materials used to attenuate scattered radiation from CT suites.

  7. A CT technologist is concerned about cumulative occupational dose. Which dosimeter provides the most accurate record of whole-body exposure?

    Answer: Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) badge worn at collar level

    An OSL badge worn at the collar (outside any lead apron) is the standard for whole-body occupational dose monitoring and provides accurate cumulative records.