Final answer:
In California, fluoroscopy for positioning patients before routine radiographic imaging should be guided by the principle of 'benefit outweighing the risk' and employed only when necessary, with proper protective measures like lead aprons to reduce radiation exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the California state regulations, the use of fluoroscopy to position patients prior to taking a routine radiographic film is largely subject to the radiation protection principles of justification and optimization. This involves considering a balance between the risk versus benefit of the radiation exposure. Even though the regulations may not explicitly prohibit the use of fluoroscopy for positioning, it is typically expected to follow the principle where radiation is used diagnostically only when the benefit outweighs the low risk involved. Therefore, the use of fluoroscopy could be acceptable under certain conditions, such as when it significantly improves the quality of the diagnostic information and when appropriate protection measures are in place, such as the use of lead aprons and proper shielding techniques to minimize radiation exposure to the patient and medical staff.
Moreover, due to the advancements in radiographic techniques, and the availability of faster films and more sophisticated medical imaging technologies that limit the radiation exposure, the use of fluoroscopy for positioning should be minimized and conducted under specific protocols that stress patient and operator safety.