Which practice helps minimize patient exposure during radiographic procedures?

Optimizing exposure settings is crucial for minimizing patient exposure during radiographic procedures because it ensures that the appropriate amount of radiation is used based on the specific imaging needs. This practice involves adjusting factors such as kilovolt peak (kVp), milliampere-seconds (mAs), and the use of proper filters to enhance image quality while reducing unnecessary exposure to radiation.

When exposure settings are optimized, the radiologist can achieve a clear, diagnostic image using the least possible dose of radiation. This balance is essential to protect patient safety while still obtaining the necessary information for accurate diagnosis and treatment. In contrast, the other practices listed compromise image quality and increase exposure, which can inadvertently elevate the risk to patients. Consequently, focusing on optimizing exposure settings is the most effective approach to maintaining quality in radiographic imaging while protecting patient welfare.