Final answer:
Manual override of automatic collimators on children may be necessary to collimate to the area of interest, use shorter exposure times, and ensure accurate imaging procedures. However, it should only be done with valid reasons and following safety protocols.
Step-by-step explanation:
Manual override of automatic collimators may be necessary on children for several reasons:
- In order to collimate to the area of interest only: Children have smaller body sizes and different body proportions compared to adults. By manually adjusting the collimators, the radiation field can be limited to the specific area being examined, reducing unnecessary exposure to other parts of the body.
- In order to use shorter exposure times: Children are usually more active and have difficulty remaining still during radiographic procedures. Manually overriding the automatic collimators allows for shorter exposure times, minimizing the chances of motion blur in the resulting images.
- Should never over-ride the automatic collimation device: While it is important to consider the specific needs of children, safety protocols should always be followed. Over-riding the automatic collimation device without a valid reason can lead to inaccurate and unsafe radiation exposures.
By utilizing the manual override of automatic collimators on children, radiologists can ensure accurate and safe imaging procedures.