What does ALARA stand for in the context of radiation safety protocols?

ALARA stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable." This principle is a fundamental guideline in radiation safety, emphasizing the importance of minimizing exposure to ionizing radiation while still achieving the necessary diagnostic or therapeutic objectives. By adopting ALARA practices, healthcare providers aim to limit radiation doses to patients, staff, and the public to the lowest levels that are practical, without compromising the quality of medical care.

The concept of ALARA incorporates several key elements, including the use of appropriate shielding, optimizing imaging protocols, and utilizing equipment settings that provide the best image quality while minimizing radiation dose. This proactive approach balances the benefits of necessary procedures with the potential risks associated with radiation exposure, making it a cornerstone of radiation safety protocols in medical imaging and radiation therapy.