Which safety measures are typically taken to protect patients during X-ray imaging?

The chosen answer focuses on several critical safety measures that are standard in the field of X-ray imaging to protect patients from unnecessary radiation exposure.

Using lead aprons is a well-established practice in radiology. These aprons are designed to absorb radiation and protect sensitive organs, especially in areas like the abdomen and reproductive organs, from scatter radiation during the procedure.

Limiting exposure time is another essential strategy. The shorter the duration of exposure to X-ray radiation, the lower the dose received by the patient. This is particularly important in reducing the potential risk of radiation-induced complications.

Positioning patients as far from the X-ray source as possible further minimizes exposure. The intensity of X-ray radiation decreases with distance, following the inverse square law, which states that if the distance from the source is doubled, the radiation intensity is reduced to a quarter of its original value.

While other methods mentioned in the choices do address aspects of patient safety, they do not encompass the comprehensive approaches provided in the correct answer. For example, encouraging patients to hold their breath can help in obtaining clear images but does not directly reduce radiation dose. Using digital images does help streamline the process and can facilitate lower doses compared to traditional film, but the fundamental protective measures of lead aprons,