Approximately what percentage of retakes are due to errors in exposure factors?

• A. 10%
• B. 25%
• C. 50%
• D. 70%

Answer: (C)

Exposure factors determine how bright or dark an image will be and how well details are recorded. When kVp, mA, or exposure time aren’t matched to the patient’s size and part thickness, the image can be underexposed or overexposed, resulting in a nondiagnostic study that must be retaken. This category tends to be the single largest cause of repeats, accounting for roughly half of all retakes. So, about 50% of retakes are due to exposure-factor errors. To reduce this, follow technique charts, verify patient size, use AEC correctly, and check exposure indicators to ensure the first image is within acceptable exposure. Other issues like positioning or motion also cause repeats, but exposure errors are the most common culprit.