CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is a secondary barrier designed to protect against in radiology?

1. Primary radiation beam

2. Leakage and scatter radiation

3. Heat generated by equipment

4. High energy X-rays only

The correct answer is: Leakage and scatter radiation

The correct answer identifies that a secondary barrier is specifically designed to protect against leakage and scatter radiation. In radiology, the primary barrier serves as the first line of defense against the primary radiation beam, which is the direct path of the radiation that travels from the x-ray tube to the patient. However, secondary barriers are crucial for shielding individuals from scatter radiation, which is radiation that has been deflected from its original path by interaction with matter, such as tissues and equipment. Leakage radiation, on the other hand, refers to radiation that escapes from the x-ray tube housing. Secondary barriers are typically constructed in areas where occupational exposure can occur, such as control rooms or hallways adjacent to x-ray rooms. Their design takes into account factors like the energy of the x-ray beam and the frequency of procedures to ensure adequate protection. Options related to heat generated by equipment and high-energy X-rays only do not pertain to the function of a secondary barrier. Heat is managed through equipment design and ventilation, and high-energy X-rays are considered within the scope of primary barriers rather than secondary ones designed specifically for scatter and leakage radiation.