Radiology Practice Test

Which action is not one of the purposes served by film badges in radiology practice?

1. Monitoring personal exposure

2. Recording cumulative radiation doses

3. Evaluating the patient's exposure

4. Identifying patients

The correct answer is: Evaluating the patient's exposure

Film badges are primarily designed for personal dosimetry in radiation safety. They serve crucial roles such as monitoring the exposure of personnel who work in environments where radiation is present and recording cumulative radiation doses over time, which is essential for ensuring safety standards are met. The purpose of evaluating a patient's exposure to radiation, while important in the context of patient safety and care, is not a function of the film badge itself. Film badges are not used to track or assess radiation exposure specific to patients; rather, they are intended solely for the monitoring of the radiation exposure of the staff operating in radiologic environments. Identifying patients or recording their exposure would typically be managed through other methods and documentation, such as electronic records or specific dosimetry for medical assessments. Thus, the option regarding evaluating the patient's exposure does not align with the primary functions of film badges.