What does the term "radiation dose" refer to?

The term "radiation dose" specifically refers to the quantity of ionizing radiation energy absorbed by the tissues of a patient’s body during medical imaging or treatment. This measurement is crucial in the context of patient safety and care, as it helps healthcare professionals determine the potential risks associated with exposure to radiation. High doses of radiation can lead to cell damage and increase the risk of cancer, making it essential to keep radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA principle) while obtaining necessary diagnostic information.

Understanding the radiation dose is vital for proper risk assessment and management in medical imaging procedures. Maintaining awareness of the absorbed radiation levels supports the optimization of imaging protocols and enhances patient safety while still meeting clinical needs.