Which condition may increase bowel motility?
Ileus.
Peritonitis.
Intussusception.
Malabsorption syndrome. -answer- Malabsorption
... [Show More] syndrome.
Malabsorption syndromes, such as Celiac disease, increase bowel motility. An ileus, peritonitis, and intussusception decrease bowel motility.
Which function are Radiology information system (RIS) networks are capable of performing?
Recording and retrieving diagnostic images. Tracking radiology scheduling information. Processing laboratory reports.
Tracking billing information. -answer- Tracking radiology scheduling information.
Radiology information system (RIS) contains radiology scheduling information. PACS is a computerized system that stores digital images into a central computer system for retrieval. Laboratory reports may be processed by a hospital information system (HIS), or one of its medical sub-systems. An HIS tracks billing information.
What is the result if the total lead content of a grid is decreased?
Increased scatter absorption. Decreased scatter absorption. Greater image contrast.
Higher patient dose. -answer- Decreased scatter absorption.
When the total amount of lead in a grid is decreased, decreased scatter absorption occurs. Increased scatter absorption occurs when more lead is present, as does greater image contrast. More lead in a grid requires increased technical factors, indirectly increasing the patient's dose.
Which increases a radiographer's radiation exposure?
Choosing high kilovolts peak (kVp), low milliampere seconds (mAs) factors. Use of high-speed image receptor (IR) systems.
Choosing low kilovolts peak (kVp), high milliampere-seconds (mAs) exposure factors.
Use of positive beam limitation (PBL). -answer- Choosing low kilovolts peak (kVp), high milliampere- seconds (mAs) exposure factors.
The likelihood of a Compton scattering event is approximately 1/E; so, as kVp is reduced, Compton events become more likely. Because compton scattered photons contribute most to the radiographer's dose, low kVp and high mAs techniques increase a radiographer's exposure. All other options actually decrease the radiographer's exposure.
A patient receives an entrance skin dose of 5 mGy during a lumbar spine procedure. How much exposure will the radiographer receive when standing 1 meter from the patient?
0.01 mGy.
0.005 mGy.
0.025 mGy.
0.015 mGy. -answer- 0.005 mGy.
Scatter radiation is 0.1% of the original exposure at 1 meter. Therefore, the exposure received by the radiographer is 5 mGy X .001 = 0.005 mGy. The other exposure levels given are incorrect for a distance of 1 meter from the source of scatter.
How can the radiographer decrease radiation exposure when performing radiographic examinations on pediatric patients? (Select the three that apply.)
Increase field size.
Decrease field size.
Use non-grid techniques.
Effectively communicate expectations to patient.
Use high milliampere-seconds (mAs), low kilovolts peak (kVp) techniques. -answer- Decrease field size. Use non-grid techniques.
Effectively communicate expectations to patient.
A radiographer can decrease radiation exposure by decreasing field size, using non-grid techniques, and effectively communicating expectations to the patient. Increasing the field size and using high mAs and low kVp techniques will increase radiation exposure.
A 41-year-old male is having a radiographic procedures performed. The patient asks the radiographer, "What kind of radiation protection policy do you have in place for your patients?" How should the radiographer respond?
Radiology equipment doesn't really produce radiation.
We use the "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA) philosophy.
We use protective aprons to block radiation, so we don't have a policy in place.
We use film badges to determine the amount of radiation that is reasonable for our patients. -answer- We use the "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA) philosophy.
Every system should use the ALARA guideline for safe radiation practicing. ALARA should consist of a written policy illustrating the plan, audits performed by management, and the on-going commitment of all employees to using the least amount of radiation needed to yield a completely diagnostic study.
Relaying false information is inappropriate. Providing a protective apron can shield the patient from radiation, but this is only one safety measure used in the health care setting. Film badges are routinely worn by radiographers, not patients.
A step-up transformer with 300 turns in the primary coil is supplied with 220 volts to this primary. How many secondary turns are needed to produce a 66,000 volt output?
1 turn.
14 turns.
66,000 turns.
90,000 turns. -answer- 90,000 turns.
With an input voltage of 220 and an output voltage of 66, 000 volts (66 kilovolts (kV), the necessary turns ratio is 66,000/220 = 300: 1. If there are 300 turns in the primary, and 300 times that in the secondary, then 300 x 300 = 90, 000 secondary turns are needed to produce a 66 kV output. All other responses result from math errors or misunderstandings of step up transformers.
During an esophagram, which action may demonstrate esophageal varices?
Instruct the patient to do the Valsalva maneuver. Have the patient swallow a barium tablet.
Position the table in the Fowler position.
Perform images in the upright position. -answer- Instruct the patient to do the Valsalva maneuver.
Esophageal varices may be demonstrated when the patient performs the Valsalva maneuver. The Valsalva maneuver creates numerous effects in the body because it builds up the pressure in the pleural cavity, known as the intrapleural pressure.
This increased pressure can lead to the compression of the chambers of the heart and key blood vessels in the body, including:
the aorta, which is the major artery that pumps oxygen-rich blood through the body the vena cava, which is the major vein that returns blood to the heart
The compression of the aorta initially causes the blood pressure to rise. A sBarium tablets are used to demonstrate esophageal strictures. Esophageal varices are best demonstrated when barium has to flow against gravity. Therefore, the Fowler position and the upright position should not be used.
When imaging the toes, how much is the central ray (CR) angled for the anteroposterior (AP) axial image?
No angle.
5 degrees.
15 degrees.
25-30 degrees. -answer- 15 degrees.
The radiographer uses a 15 degree angle to image the toes. This opens the metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of the toes. Using no angle makes it harder to visualize the joints. A 5 degree is too little and will not open the joint spaces. The angle of 25-30 degrees is too much and may elongate the toes.
Determine the file size for an image with a 512 x 512 matrix and 12 gray scale bit depth.
262,144 bytes.
393,216 bytes.
3,145,748 bytes.
25,165,824 bytes. -answer- 393,216 bytes.
File size is determined by determining the total number of pixels multiplied by the scale bit depth divided by 8. Eight bits are in a byte. 512 x 512 x 12/8 = 393,216 bytes. 262,144 is thetotal number of pixels in the matrix. 3,145,748 is the total number of pixels in the matrix multiplied by the gray scale bit depth. 25,165,824 is the total number of pixels in the matrix multiplied by the gray scale bit depth and 8 (the number of bits in a byte).
If computed radiography (CR) imaging plates (IP) haven't been used, how often should they be erased? 24 hours.
48 hours.
72 hours.
96 hours. -answer- 48 hours.
According to the ASRT curriculum guide, IPs should be erased every 48 hours, if they have not been used. While some departments may have a policy that IPs should be erased if they have not been used every 24 hours, this is not necessary according to the ASRT curriculum guide. Seventy-two hours and 96 hours exceed the limit.
Why is it important for the radiographer to observe the milliampere seconds (mAs) readout at the end of each exposure when using automatic exposure control (AEC)?
This value may be used to estimate patient dose.
It provides a visual cue to release the exposure switch.
It provides an indication that the proper amount of exposure was used.
This value may be used as a basis for calculating manual techniques. -answer- This value may be used as a basis for calculating manual techniques.
It is important for the radiographer to make note of the mAs readout for each exposure, as this value can be used as a point of reference for the calculation of manual techniques. Digital radiography (DR) systems use dose area product (DAP) to estimate patient dose, since mAs does not directly correlate
with radiation dose. The exposure switch is released at the end of the exposure, which is signaled by an audible sound; when the sound ends, the exposure ends and the switch may be released. The amount of exposure is indicated by the exposure index in computed radiography (cassette-based) systems, and by DAP in DR systems.
In the anteroposterior (AP) cervical spine image, click on the left transverse process of C7. -answer- Since C7 is a transitional segment of the spine, its transverse processes appear more like thoracic transverse processes than cervical ones. The left transverse process is seen low on the patient's left side just above the transverse process of T1. It is easy to identify T1, because of the presence of the first ribs.
Which is one function of a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) network?
Tracking billing information.
Listing inpatient ordering information. Holding reports dictated by the radiologist.
Downloading images from different imaging modalities. -answer- Downloading images from different imaging modalities.
PACS is a computerized system that allows different digital imaging programs to download from computed radiography (CR), digital radiography (DR), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Nuclear Medicine, positron emission tomography (PET), Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and film digitizers. A Hospital Information System (HIS) tracks billing information and holds the inpatient ordering system. A Radiology Information System (RIS) contains the radiologist's dictated and transcribed reports.
While reviewing an anteroposterior (AP) portable chest exam on the display a radiographer notices the medial ends of the clavicles are demonstrated just below the top of the apices of the lungs. Which positioning error has occurred?
The patient elevated their shoulders during inspiration. The central ray angle was angled toward the head.
The patient did not take in a full inspiration.
The patient was somewhat rotated. -answer- The central ray angle was angled toward the head.
The medial ends of the clavicles are demonstrated high on the apices when the central ray has a cephalic angle. When the patient elevates their shoulders during inspiration, the distal ends of the clavicles are raised and usually results in clipping of the lung apices. If the patient does not make a full inspiration, the lungs are not fully expanded and the structures within them appear congested. Rotation is determined by the positioning of the sternoclavicular joints on the thoracic spine.
Which normal effect of aging is a common obstacle to communication with elder adults?
Decreased intelligence.
Hearing impairment.
Senile dementia.
Aphasia. -answer- Hearing impairment.
Hearing impairment, a sensory deficit that commonly accompanies the aging process, presents an obstacle to communication with elder adults. The normal aging process is not characterized by a decrease in intelligence. Senility is not a natural part of aging. Aphasia is not a normal effect of aging, but usually a result of a brain lesion or injury.
A patient is having a lengthy procedure done in the medical imaging department. The patient seemed to be anxious at the beginning of the procedure and starts wheezing. What should the radiographer do next?
Initiate oxygen therapy. Call for medical assistance.
Allow the patient to use an inhaler.
Ask the patient if they have a history of asthma. -answer- Ask the patient if they have a history of asthma.
The radiographer should first ask if the patient has a medical issue, like asthma. Stress can increase the likelihood of an asthma attack. Oxygen therapy should not be initiated at this stage. The situation is not severe enough to call for medical assistance. The patient should be allowed to use an inhaler or other bronchodilators after medical evaluation.
Which computed radiography (CR) or digital radiography (DR) system produces images with the highest spatial resolution?
Photostimulable phosphor CR. Cesium iodide - indirect capture DR
Amorphous selenium - direct capture DR.
Cesium iodide / amorphous silicon - indirect DR. -answer- Amorphous selenium - direct capture DR.
Direct capture DR exhibits the highest contrast resolution currently since remnant x-rays are directly converted to electrons by the detector. Photostimulable CR and both forms of indirect capture DR exhibit lower contrast resolution than direct capture DR.
Identify the urinary bladder in the retrograde pyelogram presented below. -answer- The urinary bladder is located in the midline, just superior to the pubic symphysis. (No Picture)
Which example represents a violation of the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule?
Whiteboards in public view contain the patients' initials. Patient's name is called out in a crowded waiting room. Patient's condition is discussed by staff in the break room.
Waiting room sign-in sheet is placed at the reception desk. -answer- Patient's condition is discussed by staff in the break room.
Discussing a patient's condition in the break room is a violation of the Privacy Rule. A hospital whiteboard may contain a patient's initials, as long as the diagnosis is not included. Calling out a patient's name in a crowded waiting room and placing a sign-in sheet in public view are considered incidental disclosures, and are not considered violations of the Privacy Rule.
A patient is scheduled for a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). The radiographer explains the procedure in these terms: "This tubing will be connected to your catheter. It's very important that the bladder gets very full, so please let us know when you feel the urge to urinate." For which patient is this explanation most appropriate?
2-year-old child. 6-year-old child.
6-month-old baby.
24-year-old woman. -answer- 24-year-old woman.
The 24-year-old woman will understand these terms. It's very important for a radiographer to explain procedures in terms appropriate to the patient's age, culture, etc. This particular terminology is too advanced for a 2-year-old child, a 6-year-old child, or a 6-month-old baby.
Click on the duodenal bulb in the PA Small Bowel image. -answer- NO PICTURE
The duodenal bulb is seen here as an arrowhead shaped structure alongside T12 and L1.
Which patient is most likely suffer to ill effects from a contrast medium injection?
Elderly patient in renal failure. Patient who refuses contrast. Healthy adult.
Teenager. -answer- Elderly patient in renal failure.
The elderly patient is most likely to suffer ill effects from contrast media, because the kidneys cannot properly filter the contrast out. Renal failure is a major contraindication to intravenous contrast media. A patient who refuses would not be given any contrast. A healthy adult and teenager would be the least likely to suffer ill effects.
When attempting to move a 300 pound object, which rule of body mechanics represents the safest option?
Carry the load close to the body. Lift the object with knees bent. Roll or push the object.
Ask for help to lift the object. -answer- Roll or push the object.
The safest way to move a heavy object is to roll or push the load. Injury is more likely to occur when carrying or lifting a heavy object.
Which of these atoms or parts of atoms exhibits no charge?
Proton. Neutron. Electron.
Hydrogen nucleus. -answer- Neutron.
The only non charged particle here is a neutron. All other responses describe charged particles. Remember a hydrogen nucleus is a single proton.
Which term refers to the process by which digital radiography (DR) systems adjust for exposure errors so that the image is displayed with proper brightness and contrast levels?
Image inversion. Edge enhancement. Automatic rescaling.
Contrast manipulation. -answer- Automatic rescaling.
Automatic rescaling is the process by which images are automatically displayed with appropriate brightness levels, even if too much or too little exposure was used. Image inversion reverses the gray scale of the original image, making bone appear black and soft tissues appear white. Edge enhancement improves the visibility of small, high-contrast areas by making the edges appear sharper. Contrast manipulation is a post processing technique that alters the pixel values to increase image contrast.
Which type of exposure technique chart would allow the radiographer to make small, fine adjustments for orthopedic work?
Fixed kilovolts peak (kVp). Variable kilovolts peak (kVp). Automatic exposure control (AEC).
Anatomically programmed radiography (APR). -answer- Variable kilovolts peak (kVp).
A variable kVp exposure system will allow the radiographer to make fine changes in technique for small body parts. A fixed kVp exposure system is good for most other radiography and decreases patient exposure. AEC can be used only for bucky work. APR gives an average technique for body part and may be a combination of manual technique and AEC. Johnston and Fauber, Essentials of Radiographic Physics and Imaging, Ch. 10, "Types of Technique Charts, p. 123. Fauber, Radiographic Imaging & Exposure, 4th ed., Ch. 8, "Variable kVp/Fixed mAs Technique Chart," pp. 216-217.
In the event that a pregnant patient is inadvertently irradiated, who should perform the calculations necessary to determine fetal dose?
Radiographer performing the examination. Imaging department manager.
Radiologic physicist.
Radiologist. -answer- Radiologic physicist.
In the event that a pregnant patient is inadvertently irradiated, the radiologic physicist should perform the calculations necessary to determine fetal dose, not the radiographer performing the examination, the imaging department manager, or the radiologist.
Which description best defines a histogram?
Graph where x-axis is the amount of exposure read, and the y-axis is the number of pixels. The visual means for the radiographer to critique the radiographic image.
The mathematical analysis of the data set received by the image receptor (IR).
The quantization of photon data striking the image receptor (IR). -answer- Graph where x-axis is the amount of exposure read, and the y-axis is the number of pixels.
A histogram is a graph where x-axis is the amount of exposure read, and the y-axis is the number of pixels. The histogram is then compared to stored "norm" of that same anatomical part. The histogram is not a routine part of the human visual image acceptance process. The algorithm is the mathematical analysis of acquired data. The quantization of the data occurs in the analog to digital converter (ADC).
Which central ray (CR) angulation is recommended for an anteroposterior (AP) axial projection of the toes?
5 degrees toward the heel.
15 degrees toward the heel. 30 degrees toward the heel.
40 degrees toward the heel. -answer- 15 degrees toward the heel.
A 15-degree angle toward the heel is recommended to demonstrate open metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint spaces on an AP projection of the toes. The other CR angles described result in closed MTP joint spaces, as well as undesirable shape distortion.
Which example represents a violation of a patient's privacy, if communicated to anyone not directly involved with the care of the patient?
A named physician is an internal medicine specialist. Results of this exam should be available in 24 hours. A named patient is called for his barium enema.
This exam will take about 10 minutes. -answer- A named patient is called for his barium enema.
Naming a patient and identifying the exam as a barium enema is both inappropriate and a privacy violation. The remaining responses may or may not be appropriate, but they are not violations of patient privacy.
How should the radiographer alter an anteroposterior (AP) or oblique lumbar spine projection in order to reduce genetically significant dose (GSD) to the patient? (Select the four that apply.)
Select all that apply Employ gonadal shielding.
Use 85 kilovolts peak (kVp), instead of 75 kVp.
Carefully collimate to include the psoas muscles on all images.
Perform posteroanterior (PA), instead of AP, and anterior obliques, instead of posterior obliques.
Use automatic exposure control (AEC), and be sure the spine is positioned over the single, center cell. - [Show Less]