GXMO Quality Control and Maintenance Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of added filtration in the X-ray beam?

Answer: Remove low-energy photons that increase patient dose without contributing to the image

Added filtration (typically aluminum) absorbs low-energy photons that would be absorbed by the patient rather than reaching the detector, reducing skin dose without affecting diagnostic image quality.

Processor quality control temperature for the developer in a film processor should typically be maintained at approximately:

Answer: 95°F (35°C)

Developer temperature is maintained at approximately 95°F (35°C) for standard rapid-access film processors; deviations alter development time and film density.

A grid is used in radiography primarily to:

Answer: Absorb scatter radiation before it reaches the image receptor

Grids consist of alternating lead strips and spacers that absorb off-angle scatter radiation, improving image contrast at the cost of increased patient exposure.

Grid cutoff refers to:

Answer: Absorption of primary radiation by the grid due to improper alignment or focus

Grid cutoff occurs when the primary beam is absorbed by the grid's lead strips due to incorrect SID, off-centering, or grid tilt, producing areas of underexposure.

In digital radiography, exposure index (EI) values are used to:

Answer: Indicate the amount of radiation that reached the detector for a given exposure

The exposure index (EI) is a numerical indicator of detector exposure level, helping technologists identify over- or underexposure even when the displayed image looks acceptable.

Which action should be taken when an X-ray unit's timer accuracy is found to be outside the ±5% tolerance during QC testing?

Answer: Remove the unit from service and arrange for repair or calibration

An X-ray unit with timer accuracy outside acceptable tolerances must be taken out of service for repair or calibration to ensure consistent, safe exposures.