(Radiation Protection in Medical Radiography, 9th Edition — Mary
Alice Statkiewicz Sherer)
Themes Covered:
Fundamental principles: Justification, Optimization, ALARA
History of radiation safety and early injuries
Ethical responsibilities of radiologic technologists
Below are 28 original, extra advanced university-level multiple-
choice questions, each with the ✅ Correct Answer and deep
rationales as required.
1.
Which of the following best illustrates the principle of justification in
medical imaging?
A. Using a lead apron during all radiographic procedures
B. Comparing prior imaging before proceeding with new scans
C. Ordering a CT scan only when the diagnostic benefit outweighs
radiation risk
D. Limiting beam intensity through proper collimation
✅ Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The principle of justification states that an imaging
procedure involving radiation should only be performed when the
expected clinical benefit outweighs the potential harm. Lead
shielding and collimation (A, D) are examples of optimization, not
justification.
2.
,A radiologic technologist questions a physician’s order for a second
abdominal CT within 24 hours due to potential overexposure. This is an
example of:
A. Insubordination
B. Professional liability
C. Ethical duty aligned with ALARA and justification principles
D. Violation of the technologist’s scope of practice
✅ Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Radiologic technologists are ethically obligated to advocate
for radiation protection. Questioning potentially unnecessary imaging
reflects adherence to justification and ALARA, not insubordination or
overstepping.
3.
What historical radiation incident led directly to the implementation of
shielding and exposure time limits?
A. The Chernobyl nuclear disaster
B. The Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings
C. Early fluoroscopy-induced radiation dermatitis in physicians
D. Discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Roentgen
✅ Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the early 20th century, prolonged use of fluoroscopy led
to dermatitis, cancer, and amputations among operators. These
injuries prompted the development of shielding and exposure
regulation practices.
4.
, Which statement about the ALARA principle is most accurate?
A. ALARA applies only to occupational radiation exposures.
B. ALARA emphasizes absolute elimination of all radiation exposure.
C. ALARA is a regulatory limit enforced by the NRC and OSHA.
D. ALARA is a philosophy guiding practices to minimize exposure
while achieving diagnostic goals.
✅ Correct Answer: D
Rationale: ALARA stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable"
and is a guiding philosophy, not a numeric limit. It applies broadly —
including patients, staff, and the public — to balance image quality and
safety.
5.
In the context of ethical practice, which of the following actions best
demonstrates the technologist’s duty to protect public health?
A. Limiting patient exposure time during fluoroscopy
B. Ensuring accurate labeling of radiation signage near control areas
C. Adjusting technique to optimize contrast on an image
D. Asking patients about metal implants before scanning
✅ Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Ethical practice extends beyond patient interaction. Proper
signage fulfills a public protection obligation by preventing
unauthorized exposure and enhancing environmental safety awareness.
6.
Which concept emphasizes balancing diagnostic image quality with
minimal radiation dose?