ALARA principle guides the use of radiation in diagnostic imaging?

• A. It stands for As Low As Reasonably Achievable.
• B. It stands for Always Limit and Avoid Radiation Again.
• C. It stands for As Lightly Avoided Radiation Appearance.
• D. It stands for As Large As Reasonably Acceptable.

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is minimizing radiation exposure in diagnostic imaging while preserving the ability to diagnose. ALARA stands for As Low As Reasonably Achievable, and it guides practice to keep every patient’s radiation dose as low as possible without sacrificing image quality or clinical usefulness. In practice, this means thoroughly justifying every exam, using the lowest technically acceptable exposure, and employing dose- reduction strategies such as proper shielding, collimation, selecting appropriate imaging modalities, tailoring exposure to the patient’s size, and using advanced dose-saving technologies when available. The other statements don’t reflect the recognized aim or wording of ALARA; they either misstate the acronym or imply tolerating higher doses, which goes against the principle.