Xray Production and Safety

Question 1

xrays are similar to visible light but with a _____ wavelength, giving them ____ energy

Answer 1

shorter, greater

Question 2

digital images are stored in what kind of format?

Answer 2

DICOM

Question 3

Which end of the x-ray tube are electrons generated at, and which do they travel to?

Answer 3

cathode, anode

Question 4

which anode allows for greater dissipation of heat?

Answer 4

rotating

Question 5

energy from electrons is converted to

Answer 5

99% heat and 1% xrays

Question 6

Where is the xray cassette held?

Answer 6

the bucky tray under the table

Question 7

what are cathode filaments composed of?

Answer 7

tungsten

Question 8

What allows for excited electrons to be released from the cathode toward a focused target?

Answer 8

The focusing cap

Question 9

What are the three measurements of the electromagnetic spectrum?

Answer 9

energy (eV), frequency (Hz), and wavelength

Question 10

why is the xray tube enclosed in glass?

Answer 10

so that a vacuum can be created

Question 11

why are short wavelengths better than long wavelengths?

Answer 11

more powerful, better penetration through mass.

Question 12

What does the mAs setting on the x-ray machine control?

Answer 12

quantity of the electrons released

Question 13

acceleration of electrons and their striking energy is determined by:

Answer 13

kVp

Question 14

what structure holds the tungsten plate

Answer 14

anode

Question 15

what kinds of screens glow after rad exposure

Answer 15

intensifying screens

Question 16

what is the function of the grid?

Answer 16

decrease scatter radiation and increase contrast.

Question 17

patients great than ___ should have the film placed in a grid holder

Answer 17

10cm

Question 18

Why keep mA as high as possible?

Answer 18

to keep exposure time lower.

Question 19

What are the three main factors of “technique”?

Answer 19

kV, mA, and time

Question 20

what are three functions of a cassette

Answer 20

hold the intensifying screens, keep the film clean, keep light away from the film.

Question 21

What is standard patient exposure measured in?

Answer 21

milliroentgens

Question 22

What is the primary source of scatter radiation?

Answer 22

The patient

Question 23

The program established to ensure radiation exposure is kept as low as possible:

Answer 23

ALARA - As Low As Reasonably Achievable.

Question 24

What is the minimal rad protection?

Answer 24

gowns and gloves 0.5 mm lead equivalent; highly recommended to use eye and thyroid protection as well.