American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) Practice Exam

If a technologist notices that a co-worker uses exposure factors much higher than protocol, what should they do?

1. Defer to a more senior technologist and say nothing.

2. Go to the department supervisor to suggest an investigation.

3. Talk to the technologist and express concern about patient overexposure.

4. Express concern to other technologists in the department.

The correct answer is: Talk to the technologist and express concern about patient overexposure.

When a technologist observes that a co-worker is using exposure factors significantly higher than established protocols, it is critical to address the issue directly to ensure patient safety and adherence to best practices. Communicating with the technologist who is using the inappropriate exposure levels is a proactive approach. By expressing concern about the potential for patient overexposure, the technologist can provide immediate feedback, which might lead to a reevaluation of the exposure factors being used. This dialogue not only fosters a culture of safety and accountability but also provides the opportunity for education, as the co-worker may not be aware of the impact of their choices. Direct communication facilitates collegial support and problem-solving, which are vital in healthcare environments, especially in radiology, where patient safety is paramount. Engaging in such a conversation can lead to interventions that protect patients from unnecessary radiation exposure and uphold the standards of care within the department.