Final answer:
The typical mA range used during fluoroscopy is between 0.5 mA to 5.0 mA. This range balances the need for clear imaging with the importance of minimizing radiation exposure for patient safety. Advances in medical imaging technologies and protocols strive to optimize this balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asked what mA range is typically used during fluoroscopy. The correct answer is that the mA range utilized during fluoroscopy is usually between 0.5 mA to 5.0 mA. This range ensures that enough radiation is emitted to produce a clear image without unnecessarily exposing the patient to high levels of radiation. Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging that shows a continuous X-ray image on a monitor, much like an X-ray movie. During fluoroscopy, the X-rays pass through the body to create real-time images that allow for the evaluation of structures and functions.
Understanding the risk versus benefit of medical radiation exposure is essential in every diagnostic procedure involving radiation. Medical doses of radiation are intentionally kept limited to minimize risk, and diagnostic doses have decreased due to technological advancements. Different imaging modalities and procedures impart different levels of radiation, with chest X-rays being among the lowest, producing about 0.1 mSv to the targeted tissues. This is in contrast to higher dose procedures such as CT scans that can go up to about 10 mSv.
It is important for health professionals to utilize the lowest possible mA and kV settings that still produce the necessary image quality to ensure patient safety while achieving diagnostic goals. Continuous innovation and adherence to safety protocols help to protect patients from unnecessary radiation while allowing healthcare providers to make accurate diagnoses.