Radiology Practice Test

What is the purpose of utilizing lead shields during x-ray procedures?

1. To enhance image quality

2. To protect patients and staff from unnecessary radiation exposure

3. To support the x-ray machine

4. To assist in patient positioning

The correct answer is: To protect patients and staff from unnecessary radiation exposure

The purpose of utilizing lead shields during x-ray procedures is to protect patients and staff from unnecessary radiation exposure. Lead has a high atomic number and density, making it highly effective at absorbing x-rays and preventing them from passing through it. This is especially important in medical imaging, where minimizing radiation exposure is crucial for safety. By using lead shields, healthcare providers can target the area needing imaging while protecting other parts of the body and individuals in the vicinity from scatter radiation, which is radiation that deflects from the primary beam. Enhancing image quality, supporting the x-ray machine, and assisting in patient positioning are not primary purposes of lead shields. While proper positioning can be essential for obtaining optimal images, it does not relate directly to the protective measures that lead shields provide against radiation exposure.