Radiologic Technologist Practice Exam

Using which method can the overall image sharpness be improved during radiographic procedures?

1. Optimizing exposure factors

2. Decreasing the object-to-image distance

3. Using a lower kVp

4. Increasing the scatter control

The correct answer is: Decreasing the object-to-image distance

Improving overall image sharpness in radiographic procedures can be effectively achieved by decreasing the object-to-image distance, also known as the OID. When the distance between the object being imaged (e.g., patient anatomy) and the imaging receptor (e.g., film or digital detector) is minimized, the geometrical unsharpness is reduced. This is because the rays from the source of radiation converge more closely to the edges of the object, resulting in less blurring and greater detail in the final image. This principle is grounded in the concept of geometric sharpness, where the closer the detector is to the object, the less divergence of the radiation occurs before it reaches the imaging receptor. Consequently, anatomical details are depicted more clearly. Other potential methods for improving image quality, such as optimizing exposure factors or controlling scatter, have their own benefits but do not directly affect the geometric sharpness in the same immediate manner as reducing OID does. Optimizing exposure factors enhances the overall image quality but may not specifically sharpen the image's details. Using a lower kVp can lead to higher contrast but does not necessarily improve sharpness. Similarly, increasing scatter control helps in obtaining a clearer image by reducing fog, yet it does not inherently enhance the sharp