Radiography & Infection Control Flashcards
7 cards from real EFDA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Radiography & Infection Control flashcards as text
A foreshortened radiographic image is most likely the result of:
Answer: Too much vertical angulation
Foreshortening occurs when too much vertical angulation is used, causing the beam to project a compressed, shorter-than-actual image of the tooth.
What is the purpose of using a position-indicating device (PID) during radiographic exposure?
Answer: To direct the X-ray beam and reduce scatter
The PID (position-indicating device) directs the central ray of the X-ray beam toward the film/sensor and helps collimate radiation to reduce patient exposure to scatter.
Which precaution is MOST important when handling sharps contaminated with blood in the dental office?
Answer: Place used sharps immediately in a puncture-resistant sharps container
Used sharps must be immediately disposed of in an approved puncture-resistant sharps container to prevent needlestick injuries and bloodborne pathogen transmission.
What is the primary advantage of digital radiography over conventional film radiography?
Answer: Reduced radiation exposure of up to 80%
Digital radiography can reduce radiation exposure by up to 80% compared to conventional film because digital sensors are much more sensitive to X-rays.
Which standard precaution requires treating all patient blood and body fluids as potentially infectious?
Answer: Universal precautions
Universal precautions, expanded into Standard Precautions by the CDC, require treating all blood and body fluids from every patient as potentially infectious regardless of known disease status.
The herringbone pattern on a processed dental radiograph indicates:
Answer: Film placed backward in the mouth
The herringbone (tire track) pattern appears when the film is placed with the tube side facing away from the X-ray source, causing the lead foil backing to partially block the beam.
How should the dental professional handle a patient who refuses to wear a lead apron for radiographs?
Answer: Explain the safety rationale and document informed refusal
The dental professional should educate the patient about radiation safety benefits, and if the patient still refuses, document the informed refusal and proceed per office protocol.