DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Practice Exam

During the application of the parallel technique, the aiming ring of the film holding device should align:

1. Parallel

2. Angled

3. Distant

4. Opposite

The correct answer is: Parallel

In the parallel technique of radiography, the aiming ring of the film holding device must align parallel to the film or receptor. This alignment is crucial because the goal is to ensure that the x-ray beam is directed perpendicular to both the film and the object being imaged. When the aiming ring is parallel, it helps maintain the proper geometry of the radiographic image, minimizing distortion and ensuring that the resultant image accurately represents the anatomical structures. Proper alignment is essential for achieving high-quality diagnostic images. If the aiming ring is angled, distant, or opposite, it can lead to an incorrect projection of the anatomy, potentially obscuring important details, which can compromise diagnostic utility. By ensuring the aiming ring is aligned parallel, the technician maximizes the image fidelity and the effectiveness of the radiographic examination.