American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT regarded as a special consideration when establishing technique charts?

1. Radiographer skill

2. Patient age

3. Casts

4. Contrast media

The correct answer is: Radiographer skill

When establishing technique charts, consideration of patient-specific factors is crucial for ensuring optimal imaging quality while minimizing radiation exposure. Among the options presented, "radiographer skill" is not typically categorized as a special consideration in the same way that the other factors are. Patient age affects development and anatomy differences, influencing exposure settings; for example, pediatric patients may require lower exposure factors due to smaller body size and higher sensitivity to radiation. The presence of casts is also a significant consideration, as they can alter the absorption characteristics of the body part being imaged, leading to the possible need for increased technique to compensate for the additional material. Contrast media use is crucial to consider as well, as it can affect how radiation interacts with body tissues, necessitating adjustments in technique to achieve adequate image quality. While the skill level of the radiographer is essential for overall procedure performance and image quality, it does not directly impact the technical parameters that one establishes when creating or using technique charts. Thus, it stands apart from the other considerations that directly relate to patient and procedural modifications.