Which parameter relates to the amount of radiation exposure in CT imaging?

Milliamperage (mA) is a key parameter that directly affects the amount of radiation exposure a patient receives during CT imaging. In CT scans, mA refers to the tube current, which measures how many electrons are emitted from the X-ray tube per second. Increasing the milliamperage results in a higher number of X-rays being produced, leading to greater radiation exposure to the patient but also improving image quality due to the increased signal-to-noise ratio.

This relationship is crucial for optimizing imaging protocols, as higher mA settings can enhance image clarity but must be balanced against the necessity to minimize radiation dose to ensure patient safety. Understanding how mA influences radiation exposure helps radiologic technologists make informed decisions when configuring CT scans, allowing for the acquisition of high-quality images while adhering to the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) in radiation exposure.