Which aspects can x-ray personnel influence directly during equipment use?

The correct choice focuses on the aspects that x-ray personnel can directly control during the operation of imaging equipment. Collimation and patient positioning are critical factors that radiologic technologists influence to ensure the best possible quality of imaging while minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure.

Collimation refers to the process of restricting the size and shape of the x-ray beam. By adjusting the collimator, personnel can focus the x-ray beam on the area of interest, which reduces the volume of tissue exposed to radiation and enhances image quality. Proper collimation is vital for achieving precise diagnostic imaging and minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding tissues.

Patient positioning is equally crucial because it affects the alignment of the anatomy being imaged with the x-ray beam. Correct patient positioning ensures that the area of interest is adequately captured and that the images are of high diagnostic quality. Proper alignment can also help avoid the need for repeat imaging, thus reducing the overall radiation dose to the patient.

While filtration does play a role in improving the quality of the x-ray beam by removing low-energy photons, it is not something that x-ray personnel can typically adjust in real time during the operation of the equipment. Filtration is often set by the manufacturer and may only be adjusted as part of equipment maintenance or calibration.

Thus