CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Where should the X-ray tube be positioned in the O.R. to minimize dose to the technologist and surgeon?

1. Above the table

2. Under the table

3. In front of the patient

4. At the patient’s side

The correct answer is: Under the table

Positioning the X-ray tube under the table is effective in minimizing radiation exposure to both the technologist and the surgeon. When the tube is placed underneath, the scattered radiation produced during the imaging process is directed primarily upward, away from the staff. This positioning takes advantage of the protective barriers of the operating table and the patient's body, which help to absorb some of the scattered radiation, thereby reducing the dose that the technologist and surgeon receive. In contrast, placing the X-ray tube above the table or in front of the patient would expose the operator and other personnel more directly to scattered radiation, increasing their potential radiation exposure. Similarly, positioning the tube at the patient’s side could also lead to higher doses for the staff, as they would still be in the line of scatter radiation during the procedure. Therefore, the under-table positioning provides a safer operational environment while still allowing for effective imaging.