If a radiograph demonstrates an "S" (sensitivity) number of 80 with no visible exposure errors, the technologist should consider which action?

If a radiograph demonstrates an "S" (sensitivity) number of 80 with no visible exposure errors, the technologist should consider which action?

• A. repeat the radiograph using a larger grid ratio
• B. submit the radiograph as is without repeating the exposure
• C. repeat the radiograph using a smaller exposure technique
• D. repeat the radiograph using a larger exposure technique

Answer: (B)

The key idea is using the exposure indicator to judge whether a repeat is needed. An S-number of 80 indicates the detector received an appropriate level of exposure for the chosen technique, producing an image with acceptable density, contrast, and noise, and there are no visible exposure errors. When the image is diagnostically acceptable and the exposure index is in range, repeating would only add patient dose without improving quality. Altering technique to increase or decrease exposure, or changing the grid, would introduce unnecessary dose or unnecessary changes without addressing a problem. So the best action is to submit the radiograph as is.

The key idea is using the exposure indicator to judge whether a repeat is needed. An S-number of 80 indicates the detector received an appropriate level of exposure for the chosen technique, producing an image with acceptable density, contrast, and noise, and there are no visible exposure errors. When the image is diagnostically acceptable and the exposure index is in range, repeating would only add patient dose without improving quality. Altering technique to increase or decrease exposure, or changing the grid, would introduce unnecessary dose or unnecessary changes without addressing a problem. So the best action is to submit the radiograph as is.