Technology & Digital Applications Flashcards

In digital radiography, the exposure indicator (EI) number on a computed radiography image is used to:

Answer: Provide feedback on the radiation dose delivered to the imaging plate

The exposure indicator (EI) is a vendor-specific number that reflects the radiation dose received by the imaging plate/detector. It is used by the radiographer to verify that appropriate exposure was applied — and to identify over- or under-exposure.

What is the primary advantage of a flat-panel detector (FPD) in direct digital radiography (DR) over computed radiography (CR)?

Answer: Faster workflow and immediate image availability without plate handling

Direct DR flat-panel detectors provide immediate image readout without the need to transport and process imaging plates, significantly improving workflow speed and reducing the potential for imaging plate damage or contamination.

In a PACS/RIS environment, the DICOM standard is used primarily to:

Answer: Standardize the format and communication of medical imaging data across different vendors

DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) is the universal standard for storing, transmitting, and displaying medical imaging data. It enables interoperability between imaging equipment, PACS, and workstations from different manufacturers.

Dose area product (DAP) meters in fluoroscopy measure:

Answer: The product of beam area and air kerma, providing an estimate of total radiation output during the procedure

DAP (Gy·cm²) is the product of beam cross-sectional area and air kerma in free air. It integrates exposure over the entire irradiated area and reflects total radiation output, providing a useful surrogate for effective patient dose in fluoroscopy.

Which of the following best describes the function of image post-processing in digital radiography?

Answer: It applies algorithms to the raw detector data to optimize image appearance for diagnosis

Post-processing applies digital algorithms (edge enhancement, noise reduction, windowing, histogram equalization) to the raw detector data to optimize image contrast, brightness, and detail rendition for diagnosis — without changing the underlying exposure.

In a teleradiology system, images are transmitted from a remote imaging facility to a radiologist for interpretation. The PRIMARY concern for the radiographer sending images is:

Answer: Ensuring images meet HIPAA privacy standards and are transmitted securely through encrypted channels

The radiographer's primary concern when transmitting patient images via teleradiology is HIPAA compliance — ensuring PHI is protected through encrypted, secure transmission channels. HIPAA requires safeguards for all electronic PHI.