State law requires regular calibrations to be performed and documentation to be provided for medical equipment and machines to be certified for use. Some states require this documentation of the history of regular X-ray machine calibration upon demand, and if not provided, fines are imposed, and potential closure is at risk. Not complying with these strict regulations can result in you losing your X-ray license as well as being fined by the state.
Additionally, irregular X-ray machine calibration can lead to a deteriorating X-ray tube. A deteriorated imaging system can lead to multiple problems, including a shortened life span of the machine, and a lack of contrast in images, which may require repeated scanning to obtain a clear image, and in the end, may endanger patients. Here we will discuss the benefits and the need for an X-ray machine calibration.
1904 HTM knows how risky it is to your patients when your X-ray machine gives inaccurate results. Get your X-ray machine calibrated today by our experienced technicians.
What is the importance of X-ray machine calibration?
Appropriate care and maintenance of X-ray equipment are essential for you and your patients. Facilities in the healthcare industry need to take proactive measures to maintain their imaging equipment to ensure proper working order. Part of that maintenance involves calibrating your portable X-ray and stationary X-ray machine. It cannot be overstated how vital regular calibration is. Calibration schedules allow for early detection and easy resolution of many problems. Regular calibration ensures not only accurate output and safe radiation doses for the patients but also, decreases the chances of taking second X-rays occurring due to overexposed or underexposed images.
Furthermore, it allows you to focus and expose the area of interest. The calibration process also helps to lengthen the life of your X-ray generator. It is recommended that you calibrate chiropractic and medical clinic X-ray machines every year and veterinary clinic X-ray machines every two years. The process prolongs the life of your machine. During scheduled maintenance visits, the highly trained and expert technicians at 1904 HTM ensure that your mA, kV, and time output are to manufacturer specifications. Furthermore, we adjust your collimator’s light field output back to factory settings, so it matches your X-ray beam.
Is calibrating a portable X-ray machine time-consuming?
The calibration process for a portable X-ray generally takes1-2 business days to be completed. While you may think that the time and cost it takes to get your machine calibrated is not worth it, in the long run, it can turn out to be very expensive if X-ray machine calibration is not done regularly. Your machine’s proper care and maintenance will enhance your practice with good quality images, saving you time and money. 1904 HTM provides cost-effective solutions for the betterment of the services that you provide to your patients.
What X-ray source and apparatus is used for calibration?
The X-ray sources used for calibration are both diode type and diode-fluorescer combinations. Calibrating the X-ray detectors is key to accurate calibration of the X-ray sources. Generally, X-ray installations produce varying results. Accordingly, it is necessary to make periodic tests to intelligently specify the doses that are to be administered. A portable testing apparatus that may be taken from one machine to another is most desirable for this purpose. The X-ray machines are fragile and require careful periodic checking in order to ensure any sort of reliable standardization.
What are the risks associated with inaccurate X-ray machine calibration?
Inaccurate calibrations can seriously affect the technique chart and, ultimately, affect patient exposure and the diagnostic quality of radiographs. Some states require that several quality control tests, including kV accuracy, timer accuracy, mAs linearity, and reproducibility, be performed on all X-ray units. According to a research study, of the 161 machines tested, 30% failed one or more tests. The most commonly failed test was kV accuracy, while the failure of mAs linearity was the second most frequently failed test.
How can 1904 HTM help you?
By calibrating your X-ray machine on a regular basis and ensuring that all components of the system are in good working order, you can be confident that your imaging equipment is providing accurate readings. With our presence in the Puget Sound corridor including Portland, Seattle, and Tacoma, partnering with 1904 HTM for X-ray repair and service means trusting your life-saving technology to experts who understand its intricate workings and have the resources to keep it running smoothly. Let us help you maintain compliance and ensure the longevity of your digital imaging systems—contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation.