Which statement best describes the Standard of Practice for radiologic technologists?

• A. The radiologic technologist should follow all safety rules, but not necessarily standard practice.
• B. The radiologic technologist ignores standard practice when equipment fails.
• C. The radiologic technologist should develop new standards for every patient.
• D. The radiologic technologist performs services in accordance with an accepted standard of practice and minimizes radiation exposure to patient, self, and others.

Answer: (D)

Key idea: Radiologic technologists must perform services in accordance with an accepted standard of practice and minimize radiation exposure to patient, self, and others. This reflects the responsibility to follow established guidelines while applying the ALARA principle to keep every exposure as low as reasonably achievable.

This is the best description because it ties together adherence to established professional standards with a concrete safety goal—minimizing radiation exposure for everyone involved. Following an accepted standard ensures consistency, quality, and safety across patients and procedures.

If equipment fails, you still operate within the framework of standard practice—address the issue, report it, and implement precautions—rather than abandoning the standard. Creating new standards for every patient is not practical or appropriate; standards are set to provide reliable, evidence-based guidance across situations.

The other statements imply neglecting standard practice, ignoring established rules, or inventing new standards per patient, which would compromise safety and quality. The recommended approach precisely captures the obligation to follow accepted standards while actively reducing radiation exposure.