What does the program's repeat policy require?

• A. The patient decides whether a repeat is needed.
• B. The radiology technologist approves repeats without review.
• C. The department head handles all repeats.
• D. Documentation of reasons for repeats, supervisor review, and steps to prevent future repeats; approval by clinical leadership when needed.

Answer: (D)

Reducing unnecessary radiation exposure is a central goal. The program’s repeat policy requires that any repeat radiograph be justified and documented, reviewed by a supervisor, and accompanied by specific steps to prevent the same issue from occurring again. If the situation warrants, clinical leadership must approve the repeat. This setup supports ALARA, patient safety, and ongoing quality improvement by ensuring repeats aren’t taken without clear rationale and oversight. Typical steps to prevent repeats include confirming correct patient identification, ensuring proper positioning, selecting appropriate exposure factors, applying shielding, minimizing motion, and addressing any equipment or workflow issues. The decision isn’t left to the patient or made unilaterally by the technologist or department head alone; it involves documented justification, supervisory review, and appropriate leadership approval when needed.