Chapter 17: Quality Assurance

What is the fresh film test?

1. Unwrap one unexposed film from a newly opened box.

2. Process the film. Use fresh chemicals to process unexposed film.

Results:

1. If the process film appears clear with a slight blue tint then the film is fresh and stored properly.

   or

2. If the process film is fogged the film is expired and not stored properly.

How should screens be examined for quality assurance?

• Screens should be examined for dirt and scratches.

• Screens should be cleaned monthly and an antistatic solution applied.

• Screen-film contact test should be implemented.

How should cassette holders be examined for quality assurance?

Cassettes holders should be examined for light leaks, warping.

What is the stepwedge radiograph?

A device of layered aluminum steps.

What are the steps for a stepwedge test?

• Prepare film

• Use 20 films at once in same room under same conditions to create a supply for daily testing.

• Expose film

• Process one of the exposed films with fresh chemicals

• Store the remaining exposed 19 films

• Process one of the exposed stepwedge films each day.

• View the standard radiograph and the daily radiograph side by side on a viewbox and compare densities.

Which one of the two images was process with newer chemistry?

The one of the right because it has more contrast.

What is the purpose of a reference radiograph?

To see if densities seen on the reference radiograph match daily radiographs.

Matched —> developer solution strength is adequate

Unmatched —> meaning if the daily radiographs are lighter than reference radiograph. Means that the developer is either weak or cold. If the daily radiographs are darker than the reference radiograph than the developer solution is either too concentrated or too warm.

What are the quality administration procedures?

• Management of the quality assurance plan

  • Description of the plan

  • Assignment of duties

  • Monitoring schedule

  • Record-keeping log

  • Plan for evaluation and revision

  • In-service training

What is considered operator competence?

A non-diagnostic film must be retaken. Retakes expose the client to additional radiation. Repeated operator errors and errors requiring retakes should be recorded and upgrading should be implemented.

What is the safelight test (coin test)?

1. Turn off all light, including the safelight

2. Unwrap one unexposed film. Place on flat surface as least 4 feet from safelight.

3. Place a coin on the top of film.

4. Turn on the safelight and allow film and coin to be exposed for 3-4 minutes.

5. Remove coin and process film.

6. Results: If not visible image is seen on the process film, safelight is working. If image of coin and a fogged background are seen on processed film, safelight is not working properly.

How long does the coin test take?

3-4 minutes

What are some ideal conditions for the dark room?

• The darkroom is a completely darkened environment within which x-ray film can be handled and processed to produce diagnostic radiographs. It must be properly designed and equipped

• Conveniently located

• Adequate size

• Equipped with correct lighting

• Arranged with ample workplace with adequate storage

• Temperature and humidity controlled.