Radiology Practice Test

Using fast film does what?

1. Increases exposure to the patient

2. Reduces exposure to the patient

3. No effect on exposure

4. Increases image clarity

The correct answer is: Reduces exposure to the patient

Choosing fast film is a crucial consideration in radiology as it directly impacts patient safety and image quality. Fast film is designed to require less radiation to produce a diagnostic-quality image. This means that by utilizing fast film, the amount of radiation exposure to the patient is reduced. The technology behind fast film often involves the use of more sensitive emulsion layers, which can capture more photons that pass through the area being imaged, thus efficiently producing an image with lower doses of radiation. Reducing exposure is particularly important in minimizing the risks associated with cumulative radiation dose over time, especially in patients requiring multiple imaging studies. Additionally, lower exposure levels can benefit certain populations such as children, who are more sensitive to radiation. In summary, fast film is utilized to enhance patient safety by decreasing radiation exposure while maintaining adequate image quality needed for accurate diagnosis.