Final answer:
To reduce the radiation dose, fast films should be used to decrease exposure time, and proper shielding, such as lead aprons, should be employed to protect both the patient and technician. Additionally, increasing the distance from the radiation source can significantly lower exposure for the radiographer.
Step-by-step explanation:
To reduce the dose to the patient and the surrounding radiographer during a medical X-ray, certain film changes can be implemented. Utilizing fast films is a significant measure for dose reduction. Fast films require shorter exposure times to capture the necessary image, which effectively decreases the amount of radiation the patient is subjected to. This, in turn, reduces the irradiation dose for both the patient and the technician.
Moreover, implementing adequate shielding is crucial. For instance, a lead apron can be placed over the patient and shielding can be arranged to surround the x-ray tube. The shielding ensures that only the tissue being imaged is exposed to radiation while preventing scatter to adjacent tissues. In addition to this, increasing the distance between the radiographer and the source of radiation can significantly lower the radiation exposure due to the inverse square law, whereby radiation intensity decreases with the square of the distance from the source. Standing behind a lead-lined door or using a lead glass window are effective methods of protection for the radiographer.