Which statement about exposure to acoustic energy is true?

Which statement about exposure to acoustic energy is true?

• A. False
• B. Exposure cannot be managed by user actions
• C. Cannot determine
• D. Sonographers can affect exposure

Answer: (D)

Exposure to acoustic energy in ultrasound is something you actively manage through how you perform the exam. The energy delivered to tissue depends on the machine’s output, how long you keep the beam on, and the duty cycle (how often the beam is on versus off). You can affect these by using the lowest output power that still gives adequate image, choosing the appropriate frequency, favoring pulsed modes and minimal necessary Doppler use, and limiting scanning time with efficient technique. Following the ALARA principle, you adjust your approach to minimize energy exposure while obtaining the needed diagnostic information. Therefore, the statement that sonographers can affect exposure is true.

Exposure to acoustic energy in ultrasound is something you actively manage through how you perform the exam. The energy delivered to tissue depends on the machine’s output, how long you keep the beam on, and the duty cycle (how often the beam is on versus off). You can affect these by using the lowest output power that still gives adequate image, choosing the appropriate frequency, favoring pulsed modes and minimal necessary Doppler use, and limiting scanning time with efficient technique. Following the ALARA principle, you adjust your approach to minimize energy exposure while obtaining the needed diagnostic information. Therefore, the statement that sonographers can affect exposure is true.