In the absence of pediatric modes, what adjustment is recommended to reduce patient dose?

• A. Increase kV to the maximum
• B. Adjust exposure factors such as kV, mA, and exposure time
• C. Increase exposure time while decreasing mA
• D. Use higher film speed only

Answer: (B)

When pediatric-specific modes aren’t available, the way to minimize dose is to tailor the exposure by adjusting the exposure factors—kV, mA, and exposure time—based on the child’s size and the area being imaged. This coordinated adjustment lets you achieve diagnostic image quality with the lowest reasonable radiation. Increasing kV to an extreme or relying on a single change won’t reliably control dose or preserve image quality; using higher film speed helps a bit but doesn’t address optimization of all factors. By selecting appropriate kV to ensure adequate penetration and density, and balancing mA and exposure time to the smallest necessary exposure, you reduce patient dose while still obtaining a usable image.