Basic X-Ray Machine Operator Practice Exam

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• Which surface of the hand should be in contact with the IR when performing a routine lateral projection?
• A bluish coloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and nail beds indicates that the patient is suffering from what condition?
• Title II of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires that healthcare providers protect patients':
• Which device monitors and adjusts the x-ray beam to ensure consistent image quality?
• Which of the following is proper placement of the patient's arms for the upright, lateral projection of the chest?
• What kind of statement is characterized by a clear expression of one's needs and boundaries?
• A patient who is diaphoretic is experiencing which of the following symptoms?
• What is the term that describes a projection produced by angling the central ray 10 degrees or more along the long axis of the body or part?
• What is the term that means the IR is oriented so its long dimension is perpendicular to the long axis of the body?
• What positioning technique can be used to improve patient comfort during a recumbent AP projection of the lumbar spine?
• What three items must be precisely aligned to obtain a quality radiograph?
• What is the relationship between the coronal plane through the humeral epicondyles and the IR to achieve a proper AP projection of the elbow?
• What term describes radiation that exits the opposite side of the patient to expose the image receptor?
• Why is sinus radiography performed with the patient in the upright position?
• Which of the following accurately describes characteristics of x-rays?
• The electrical current flowing in an x-ray tube is measured in:
• What is the most appropriate way to address an elderly woman named Genevieve Nesmith?
• Which of the following materials is used as an added filter in x-ray tubes?
• Which of the following factors should be minimized to prevent excessive heat generation in the anode?
• What is the primary indicator of blood pressure?
• What is the "unseen" image contained in the image receptor before processing called?
• A flow-volume graph is used to plot the results of which test?
• Which of the following is considered involuntary motion during an x-ray procedure?
• How much of a change in mAs is needed if there is a 2-cm increase in the part size?
• Which bones are located in the palm area of the hand?
• What does supination mean?
• What information should be documented when urine test results indicate the presence of blood?
• Which pathological condition is most likely to require an increase in exposure technique?
• Which factor primarily controls the density in a radiographic image?
• What is the primary controlling factor of penetration of x-rays?
• What is the purpose of using a lead apron during radiographic procedures?
• Which of the following statements about radiation exposure is true?
• Which positioning baseline extends from the inferior orbital margin to the EAM?
• What material is typically used for the construction of an x-ray tube?
• What is the anatomical name for the bone commonly known as the kneecap?
• What indicates that the correct exposure has been received by the phosphors in the imaging plate?
• What is the name of the structure that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity?
• How much is the patient rotated for an AP oblique projection of the lumbar spine?
• What is an appropriate method for viewing both AP and PA projections effectively?
• What term describes the way we convey messages without words?
• What happens if an x-ray tube is not properly warmed up before use?
• What is the condition characterized by bronchial constriction and difficulty breathing due to stress?
• A lateral projection of the face, with no grid, is used to image which of these bones?
• What angle and direction is the CR directed when performing an AP axial projection of the cervical spine?
• A medication dose administered subcutaneously should be limited to no more than:
• Which anatomic term refers to the air-filled cavities located in some bones of the face and cranium?
• Which term refers to the reduction of radiation intensity as it passes through matter?
• Which technique adjustment is necessary for obese patients in radiographic procedures?
• How is the CR directed for a PA axial projection (Caldwell method) of the skull?
• The digits of the hand are composed of which bones?
• When administering a medication intramuscularly to a child under 5 years of age, the best site to use is the:
• When should barriers, as outlined by Standard Precautions, be utilized?
• What anatomic term is used to describe the inferior, lateral "corners" of the lungs?
• What tarsal bone is commonly referred to as the "heel bone"?
• To achieve a prone position, how must the patient be placed?
• What anatomic structures articulate to form the knee joint?
• Where is the central ray directed when performing the AP projection of the knee?
• What patient breathing instructions maximize the amount of air in the lungs on the PA projection of the chest?
• What is the CR angled for an AP projection of the knee on a patient with an ASIS to tabletop measurement of 26 cm?
• What happens to the x-ray beam as it travels away from the cathode?
• Which of the following is the medical term for swelling?
• What is the overall contrast seen in the radiographic image called?
• What might a rapid, weak heartbeat indicate about a person's condition?
• If a standard distance vision test cannot be performed, what can be used as an alternative?
• What is the position of the wrist when performing the PA oblique projection?
• What is forced expiration spirometry primarily used to assess?
• When should a grid be used in radiographic procedures?
• Which part of the x-ray tube is responsible for converting electrical energy into x-rays?
• What is a common small focal spot size in an x-ray tube?
• Quantum mottle is typically seen on a radiographic image when using:
• The amplitude and morphology of the QRS complex provides diagnostic information obtained from which of the following?
• What is the common name for the lateral projection of the cervicothoracic region of the spine?
• True or False: Radiographs taken in both AP and PA projections should be viewed as if the patient were in anatomical position.
• What is the relationship between the humeral epicondyles and the IR to achieve a proper lateral projection of the humerus?
• How many detectors are typically found in an automatic exposure control (AEC) device in an x-ray table?
• In chest radiography, what is primarily sought to assess the diaphragm?
• Which radiographic study is typically performed bilaterally on pediatric patients and unilaterally on adults?
• Which term is used to describe the distance from the central ray to the image receptor?
• What is the active viewing area of a monitor called?
• For an AP oblique projection of the ankle mortise joint, how much should the ankle be rotated medially?
• Which of the following techniques is recommended for optimum chest radiography?
• What is the term for the invisible line perpendicular to the x-ray tube's long axis?
• Which of the following describes the anatomic position?
• How are assertive statements best characterized?
• Which organization is responsible for certifying radiologic technologists and limited operators?
• What is the primary purpose of the filament in the x-ray tube?
• How does grid ratio impact the quality of radiographic images?
• How much and in which direction is the CR angled for an AP axial oblique projection of the cervical spine?
• Which bloodborne pathogen is associated with a risk of liver disease?
• What is the term used for the most effective kVp level for a specific body part?
• Which two methods can be effective in controlling scatter radiation?
• Which radiographic projection of the cranium best demonstrates the maxillary sinuses?
• Which of the following are structures of the respiratory system?
• What is the major function of an autoclave in a healthcare setting?
• How much is the CR angled for an AP projection of the knee on a patient with an ASIS to tabletop measurement of 22 cm?
• When 62 kVp is increased by 30%, the result is approximately:
• Which intervertebral foramina are demonstrated on the AP axial oblique projection of the cervical spine?
• What mA station is generally suitable for small to average size patients during examinations?
• What primarily determines the effectiveness of a radiographic grid?
• Which organisms are commonly responsible for healthcare-associated infections?
• Which of the following diseases is caused by bloodborne pathogens?
• To perform an AP projection of the chest in the lateral decubitus position, which of the following orientations of CR and IR is necessary?
• What is considered a critical factor in reducing patient exposure during x-ray procedures?
• Failure to properly align the long axis of the anatomy of interest with the long axis of the IR or radiation field would be considered what type of error?
• An exposure time of 0.02 seconds is equal to how many milliseconds?
• Where is the latent image stored during computed radiography (CR) until it is processed?
• For the PA axial (Caldwell method) projection of the skull, which positioning baseline is placed perpendicular to the IR?
• A profession is best defined as:
• The number 9 squared is equal to:
• What process makes electrons available in the filament of the x-ray tube?
• What term describes the straightening of a joint?
• Which type of radiation is responsible for creating the image by exposing the image receptor?
• What does the term "sterilization" refer to in a medical context?
• What defines the term 'potency' in relation to medications?
• What target angle is necessary for radiation to cover a 14-in x 17-in IR at a distance of 40 inches?
• What is the purpose of having multiple leads in an ECG?
• The target in the x-ray tube is angled primarily to affect which of the following?
• What projection is utilized to demonstrate the cervical spine in the oblique position effectively?
• For an AP oblique projection of the foot, how much should the foot be rotated medially?
• What patient breathing instructions are necessary for radiography of the ribs above the diaphragm?
• Which anatomical structure serves as the primary weight-bearing component of a vertebra?
• What is one technique to reduce the amount of scatter radiation?
• Which positioning baseline, used for radiography of the skull and facial bones, extends from a point at the junction of the nose and upper lip to the EAM?
• In the Trendelenburg position, how is the patient's body positioned?
• What is one of the major advantages of using CR or DR systems in radiography?
• A "breathing technique" is used to advantage when performing a lateral projection of which portion of the spine?
• Which region of the spine is the most common site for pathologic compression fractures resulting from osteoporosis?
• Which factor directly affects the heat capacity of the target in an x-ray tube?
• What is 0.5 in fraction form?
• What controls the radiographic contrast?
• What is the primary role of an X-ray technician?
• True or False: It is essential that all radiographic markers be placed so they are recorded on the image during exposure.
• Which government agency is responsible for setting standards for the control of drugs?
• Which of the following human needs is more basic than the others?
• What is the term for a fracture that occurs from repeated injuries insufficient to cause a fracture from a single occurrence?
• A natural or synthetic drug with actions similar to those of morphine is known as what?
• When performing an AP axial projection of the foot, the central ray is directed ____.
• Patient doses in radiography are usually calculated as the:
• What device attached under the tube housing helps vary the size of the radiation field?
• What percentage of the total energy applied to an x-ray tube target is converted into x-rays?
• An autoclave sterilizes by which method?
• What body habitus term is applied to a person of "average" size?
• Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of Alzheimer disease?
• What patient position is necessary for an AP projection of the chest in the lateral decubitus position?
• What is the term that means the IR is oriented so its long dimension is aligned with the long axis of the body?
• Which of the following are considered vital signs?
• Where is CR directed for the upright, PA projection of the chest?
• When performing venipuncture or urine collection, the safety of the health care worker requires the practice of:
• What type of imaging environment is preferred for optimal assessment of radiographs?
• What artifact is likely to appear on an x-ray image if a patient is wearing denim jeans during a knee x-ray?
• Which exposure factor is considered the most critical when using digital imaging?
• What projection is typically performed in conjunction with the lateral projection to complete a radiographic examination of the calcaneus?
• The standard of reasonable care is based upon:
• According to the NCRP, there is cause for concern if a pregnant woman receives a dose in excess of ______ to the uterus.
• Which surface of the hand should be in contact with the IR when performing a PA projection?
• What is the SI unit of exposure which measures radiation in air?
• An instrument used to monitor the oxygen saturation of sedated patients is called a/an?
• A needle holder, sometimes called a barrel, is designed to:
• The smallest possible unit of electromagnetic energy is the:
• Which method can help prolong the life of an x-ray tube?
• Why is the AP projection of the thumb preferred over the PA projection?
• Which of the following vital signs is measured at the tympanic membrane?
• When processing, what is used to scan the phosphor in a CR plate?
• What is the oldest and largest radiologic science professional organization?
• Which projection of the lumbar spine demonstrates the "Scottie dog" configuration of the zygapophyseal joint?
• In radiology, if 80,000 volts are used, what is the equivalent measurement in kVp?
• Which of the following are bones of the forearm?
• Which condition is best managed by recognizing triggers and reducing stress?
• What is a common communication strategy for effectively interacting with elderly patients?
• Which recording setting would you adjust if an ECG stylus runs off the paper?
• When is an effective time to perform the warm-up procedure for an x-ray tube?
• A gonad shield is recommended when the edge of the radiation field is within how many centimeters of the gonads?
• What effect does increasing kVp have on the x-ray beam?
• A drug that counteracts the effects of other drugs is called an:
• Which of the following are considered a part of shape distortion?
• What is 1.5 expressed as a fraction?
• The number 4 is the square root of:
• Which component of the x-ray tube is responsible for the emission of electrons?
• For the lateral projection of the skull, which positioning baseline is placed parallel to the long axis of the IR?
• In the parietoacanthial (Waters method) projection of the facial bones and sinuses, which baseline forms a 37-degree angle to the IR?
• What is the term for the cylinder block-like, anterior portion of a typical vertebra?
• What term is used for radiation that is absorbed by matter?
• What is an effective communication strategy to alleviate stress?
• Which factor controls the quantity of photons produced per second during an exposure?
• The effectiveness of a drug is referred to as its?
• After how long of being idle should an x-ray tube undergo a warm-up procedure?
• Radiation dosimeters should be worn:
• What is a common complication to consider when imaging the chest?
• What is the meaning of the term cephalic?
• When the degree of skeletal maturation is not consistent with a child's chronological age, which system is usually involved?
• How many milliseconds are in 1 second?
• When monitoring an intravenous infusion, you should be especially alert for signs of:
• What patient breathing instructions are necessary for radiography of the ribs below the diaphragm?
• When performing venipuncture, which arm should be avoided after a mastectomy?
• Which device will improve visualization of the spinous processes on the lateral projection of the thoracic spine?
• How many bones does the human skeletal system consist of?
• Test results such as negative, trace, 1+, 2+, 3, and 4+ are typical of which of the following laboratory tests?
• Which of the following grids would have a higher grid factor and therefore a high mAs?
• How does the energy of a scattered photon compare to the incoming primary beam photon?
• How many vertebrae compose the cervical spine?
• What material are the target and filament in the x-ray tube primarily made of?
• What challenge do older adults face related to presbyopia?
• What is the primary cause of unnecessary radiation exposure to patients?
• What is the degree and direction of CR angulation required to perform an AP axial projection of the clavicle?
• If a patient feels faint during venipuncture, what should be done?
• What is commonly associated with the age-related decline in vision known as presbyopia?
• What is the position of the arm when performing the AP projection of the forearm?
• In which direction should fingers and toes be oriented when viewing radiographic images?
• Which projection of the shoulder will demonstrate an open glenohumeral joint space and the glenoid process in profile?
• Diverticulitis, a common condition among geriatric patients, primarily affects which part of the body?
• Which of the following tests requires enthusiastic coaching as an essential part?
• What is the negative effect of scatter radiation reaching the image receptor called?
• What term describes movement of a part away from the central axis of the body?
• What is the square root of 25?
• Medical images belong to:
• Incorrect positioning of anatomy for a radiograph would be considered what type of error?
• Which is NOT a type of radiographic projection?
• Exclusion of significant anatomy in a radiographic image would be classified as what type of error?
• What is the medical term for the loss of bladder control?
• Why is a 72-inch SID used for the lateral projection of the cervical spine?
• What is the variation in tissue densities within the patient referred to as?
• Which assessments are included in the macroscopic examination of urine specimens?
• Which of the following is a characteristic of x-rays?
• Which organization prepares examinations necessary for the certification of radiologic technologists?
• What device is primarily responsible for producing the high voltage necessary for x-ray production?
• What happens if the grid is positioned incorrectly during an x-ray?
• In a standard diagnostic electrocardiogram, how many separate ECG recordings can be obtained from various electrode combinations?
• What does hemoptysis refer to?
• Which of the following would be used to reduce the likelihood of genetic radiation effects?
• The process by which the body transforms drugs into an inactive form that can be eliminated from the body is called:
• The force or strength of the electron flow in an electrical current is measured in which unit?
• What should you do if the amplitude of the QRS complex causes the stylus to move off the paper during an ECG recording?
• What are the proper patient instructions, just prior to the exposure, for the AP projection of the shoulder?
• Which condition might present with excessive sweating and a drop in blood pressure?
• The SI unit for measuring absorbed dose is the:
• In radiography, what is the primary role of kVp?
• What symptom is commonly associated with a patient undergoing shock?
• What is a condyle?
• How is an organ defined?
• What effect does scatter radiation have on the image receptor?
• What type of shielding is commonly used in X-ray procedures to protect patients?
• X-rays have electromagnetic energy. The velocity of this energy travels at a speed of:
• What describes the purpose of collimation in radiology?
• What is the primary purpose of using a radiographic film marker?
• What term describes the unsharp edges of a body part in radiographic imaging?
• Which control adjusts the density or brightness of a radiographic image?
• Which component of the x-ray machine is specifically designed to prevent radiation leakage?
• In which of the following circumstances should alcohol-based hand rubs be avoided?
• Which of the following is a common symptom of orthostatic hypotension?
• What is the purpose of using grids in radiographic imaging?
• Greenstick fractures are commonly seen in which group of patients?
• A diabetic patient who has taken insulin but no food may develop which condition?
• What is the main function of an electrocardiogram (ECG)?
• When a patient has a sudden onset of pain in the chest, shoulder, or jaw, what should you do first?
• Which condition is generally associated with increased risks of slipped capital femoral epiphysis?
• The veins commonly used for venipuncture are found in the:
• How can scatter radiation be controlled in an x-ray procedure?
• If the mA is doubled, what happens to the number of x-ray photons emitted from the tube?
• A "blow-out fracture" involves which of the following structures?
• Failure to properly collimate would be considered what type of error?
• Which term describes the body position when the patient is lying on his or her back?
• Which geometric factors affect the formation of a radiographic image?
• Which variable is adjusted automatically when using an automatic exposure control (AEC)?
• Which imaging technique utilizes radiation to visualize internal structures?
• What is the primary reason for stopping a procedure if a patient feels faint?
• What imaging technique is used to visualize the internal structure of the body?
• Which of the following pathological conditions would require a decrease in exposure technique?
• Which strategies are likely to be helpful in communicating with patients who are hard of hearing?
• The threat of being touched in an injurious way defines:
• Slipped capital femoral epiphysis is most frequently observed in which demographic?
• What term is used to describe the path of the CR from the radiographic tube, through the patient and to the IR?
• What is the effect of an incorrect kVp setting during an x-ray examination?
• When 230% is expressed as a decimal, the result is:
• What does "OS 20/40 sc" signify in distance vision measurement?
• Lack of spatial resolution (detail) in a radiographic image is considered which type of error?
• Which adjustment on an ECG machine might improve reading accuracy?
• In the digital imaging environment, which term is used to replace density?
• Where is the CR directed when performing an AP projection of the ankle joint?
• What is the heat unit (HU) of the anode with settings of 200 mA, 0.10 sec., and 80 kVp?
• What is the primary purpose of the diaphragm in imaging?
• What term is used for the sensation of lightheadedness when sitting up?
• Which circuit supplies the heat required by the x-ray tube filament for thermionic emission?
• Which of the following are ways that chest radiography differs from radiography of the ribs?
• Which zygapophyseal (facet) joints are demonstrated on the AP oblique projection of the lumbar spine?
• What term refers to the condition in which the tissue of a bone is broken or disrupted?
• According to the Law of Bergonie and Tribondeau, which group is least sensitive to radiation?
• Which of the following conditions may require you to administer oxygen to a patient?
• Which plane divides the body into equal right and left halves?
• What is the proper rotation of the lower limbs for an AP projection of the pelvis?
• What is meant by fibrillation in a medical context?
• Why does the anode in x-ray tubes rotate at a high RPM?
• Where is the intensity of the x-ray beam greatest?
• Standard Precautions require the use of barriers primarily when contacting which of the following?
• What is the size of the flat-panel detector inside the table of a DR system?
• What term describes an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine?
• How many heat units (HU) are generated on a high-frequency (HF) generator with an exposure of 300 mA, 0.12 sec., and 95 kVp?
• What neurological condition commonly affects the elderly, leading to tremors and debilitation?
• What is MRSA known for in a healthcare setting?
• What patient breathing instructions are necessary for an AP projection of the abdomen?
• Which position is recommended for a lateral projection of the cervicothoracic region?
• What is indicated by a radiographic side marker?
• What type of radiation travels in-air from the x-ray tube to the patient?
• Which parameters can be controlled directly from the x-ray control panel?
• What is the CCMS method primarily used for?
• What is the effect of higher mA settings on image quality?
• Which positioning baseline extends from the outer corner of the eye to the EAM for radiography of the skull and facial bones?
• What condition is characterized by the loss of bone density?
• Which facial bones are most commonly fractured?
• An antidote is a drug used to:
• What term describes the amount of detail or sharpness in a digital image?
• What does the abbreviation "EAM" represent?
• To determine the bone age of a child, radiographic studies most commonly involve which joint?
• Which plane divides the body into equal anterior and posterior halves?
• What is the CR centering point for the AP projections of the shoulder?
• When the fraction 7/8 is converted to a decimal, the result is:
• What is considered the best protection against disease in healthcare settings?
• Which factors are typically found on an exposure technique chart?
• What is the projection name for the Gaynor-Hart method performed to evaluate the carpal canal?
• Which of the following can cause too much heat on the anode and lead to failure?
• During a lumbar spine examination, which position is recommended to minimize patient discomfort?
• What is the purpose of rolling the patient's shoulders anteriorly when performing the PA projection of the chest?
• When performing a lateral view of the thoracic spine, which of the following adjustments aids in proper positioning?
• What is a common reason for a patient's diaphoretic state during a medical emergency?
• Which type of x-ray generator produces the greatest amount of x-rays for the same exposure technique?
• How many lobes does the right lung have compared to the left lung?
• Which light level is recommended for optimal viewing of radiographic images?
• What are the two components of macroscopic urine examination?
• What is the principal source of scatter radiation in radiography?
• Which factors can affect the amount of scatter radiation reaching the image receptor?
• Which of the following statements is true regarding vital signs?
• Which statement about blood collection tubes is correct?
• Presbyopia is primarily related to which of the following factors?
• In which plane should the CR be directed for an AP projection of the cervical spine?
• What is the primary purpose of an intradermal injection?
• What is the square of 10?
• How does reducing mAs impact scatter radiation?
• What parameter controls the penetrating power of the x-ray beam?
• What does a transient ischemic attack (TIA) indicate?
• Leaving a metallic object in a patient's clothing in the area to be radiographed would be considered what type of error?
• Which site is NOT recommended for phlebotomy?
• What does a sphygmomanometer measure?
• What radiation exits the body in all directions, causing unwanted exposure?
• The forefoot is composed of which bones?
• What is the maximum annual effective dose limit for an occupational radiation worker?
• Which of these practices is least likely to prolong the life of an x-ray tube?
• What is the term that describes a projection produced when the sagittal plane of the body or part is parallel to the IR?
• What does it mean if a tube is described as evacuated?
• Nonaccidental trauma is a term used to describe what phenomenon?
• What action should be taken if a urinalysis reagent strip indicates a positive result for glucose?
• A patient exhibiting increased pulse rate, pallor, weakness, and a fall in systolic blood pressure of 30 mm Hg is likely experiencing what?
• What does the term pathology refer to?
• Which of the following positioning landmarks is located at the junction of the nose and the upper lip?
• Which of the following x-ray examinations would give the patient the highest bone marrow dose?
• What is the term that describes the central ray entering the anterior surface of the body and exiting the posterior surface?
• Which setting generally provides the best image quality in radiography?
• What system is used for storing all digital images made in an x-ray department?
• When weighing a patient on a balance scale with weights set at 150 on the upper calibration bar and 21.5 on the lower bar, what is the total weight of the patient?
• In a clinical setting, why is it important to calibrate weighing scales correctly?
• Which of the following bones is part of the axial skeleton?
• If 200 mA is used for 0.12 seconds, what is the resulting mAs?
• A radiographic image is made using 500 mA, 0.1 sec., 80 kVp, and 48-inches SID. The value of the mAs for this exposure is:
• Which vital sign can be monitored using an electrocardiogram?
• What situation can lead to grid cut-off?
• Which term refers to the back portion of the body or body part?
• Patients with Alzheimer disease are commonly known to experience which of the following?