In fluoroscopy, which of the following practices helps reduce radiation exposure to both patients and staff?

Utilizing lead shielding and protective barriers is a key practice in fluoroscopy that significantly reduces radiation exposure for both patients and staff. Lead shielding acts as a barrier that absorbs and attenuates the radiation, thereby preventing it from reaching areas that do not need to be exposed. This is especially important in a clinical setting where both patients undergoing procedures and healthcare personnel working in close proximity to the radiation source are at risk.

Implementing protective barriers, such as lead aprons, lead gloves, and leaded glasses, creates additional layers of protection, contributing to a safer working environment. This practice aligns with the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), which is foundational in radiation safety, aiming to minimize exposure while achieving necessary diagnostic results.

In contrast, maximizing time in the radiation field increases exposure, using higher radiation doses can enhance image clarity but at the expense of safety, and minimizing the use of digital technology often does not contribute to reducing radiation risk. By focusing on lead shielding and barriers, practitioners enhance protection from unnecessary radiation, making it the best practice among the options provided.