Final answer:
ALARA, which stands for As Low As Reasonably Achievable, is a principle designed to minimize radiation exposure for the public, patients, and x-ray operators by limiting time in radiation environments, maintaining distance from radiation sources, and using effective shielding. All Option are correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) is crucial in the context of radiation protection measures. It emphasizes that all radiation doses should be kept as far below legal limits as possible for three specific groups: the public, the patient, and the x-ray operator.
To accomplish this, several strategies are employed. These include staying in the radiation environment for the minimum possible time, maintaining as much distance from the radiation source as achievable, and using adequate shielding to reduce exposure.
The principle of ALARA applies to public exposure to naturally occurring radiation such as radon, as well as to patients and medical personnel during medical procedures involving ionizing radiation. Laws regulate the maximum permissible doses to protect each group accordingly.
For instance, health care workers are subject to occupational dose limits, while patients receive medically necessary doses that are justified by the health benefits of the diagnosis or treatment.