When imaging a pediatric patient, what adjustments are typically made to technique?

• A. Increase focus to reduce dose
• B. Use adult technique
• C. Increase exposure time to compensate
• D. Lower kVp and mAs, shorter exposure times, and appropriate immobilization

Answer: (D)

In pediatric imaging, the goal is to get a diagnostic image while keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable. To do this effectively, technique is adjusted to the child’s size. Use the lowest kVp and corresponding low mAs that still yield a satisfactory image, and shorten the exposure time to minimize motion and dose. Proper immobilization helps keep the child still, reducing motion blur and the need for repeats, which would add more exposure. Using adult technique would deliver unnecessary dose for a smaller patient, and increasing exposure time or focusing adjustments alone won’t address the need to reduce dose or prevent motion.