Upon completion of this module, you should be able to:

1. Define the important terms in the module.
2. Identify ways in which radiographers can limit patient exposure to ionizing radiation.
3. Describe why effective patient communication is the first step in limiting radiation exposure.
4. Demonstrate techniques for effective patient communication.
5. Describe how various beam-limitation devices limit patients' exposure to x-radiation.
6. Describe how filtration devices reduce patients' exposure to x-radiation.
7. Describe how patient-shielding devices prevent x-radiation from reaching a sensitive organ, and describe how to use these devices effectively.
8. Describe how exposure factors, film-screen combinations, and grids are used to produce a useful radiographic image while minimizing patient exposure.
9. Describe how exposure factors, film-screen combinations, and grids affect patient exposure.
10. List ways to limit patient exposure during fluoroscopic procedures.
11. List methods of patient dose reduction during mammographic procedures.
12. Describe the various methods of assessing patient dose.
13. List techniques for protecting higher-risk patients, such as children and pregnant patients.
14. Describe why it is important to prevent the need for repeat radiographs.

In the module that follows you'll learn more about protecting yourself from radiation. For additional information about patient protection, visit the following sites.

Radiation Effects During Pregnancy. Accessed February 12, 2008.

RADAR—the Radiation Dose Assessment Resource. Accessed February 12, 2008.

Radiation Risks and Pediatric Computed Tomography. Accessed February 12, 2008.

Risk of Ionizing Radiation Exposure to Children: A Subject Review. Accessed February 12, 2008.