CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

If the screen speed is decreased, how does that impact the patient dose?

1. Increases patient dose

2. Decreases patient dose

3. No change to patient dose

4. Depends on the type of procedure

The correct answer is: Increases patient dose

When screen speed is decreased, it typically means that the screen's sensitivity to radiation has been reduced. Screens are used in conjunction with radiographic films to enhance the film's exposure to X-rays. A slower screen speed requires a higher dose of radiation to produce a comparable image quality. This is because a slower screen captures less light and therefore needs more penetrating radiation to achieve the same level of exposure on the film. Consequently, as the screen speed decreases, the radiographic procedure will result in an increased patient dose. This principle is vital for radiographers to understand, as it emphasizes the importance of optimizing imaging techniques to balance image quality with patient safety and dose management.