Which of the following represents a consequence of not following ALARA principles in radiologic exams?

The principle of ALARA, which stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable," emphasizes minimizing radiation exposure to patients to reduce the risks associated with diagnostic imaging. When ALARA principles are not followed, one significant consequence is an increased likelihood of deterministic effects.

Deterministic effects of radiation are biological effects where the severity of the effect increases with the dose of radiation received. These effects have a threshold dose, meaning they do not occur below a certain exposure level. Common examples include skin burns, hair loss, and radiation sickness. By not adhering to ALARA principles, radiologic procedures can result in higher doses of radiation, thereby increasing the chance of these acute effects manifesting in patients.

Consequently, prioritizing ALARA helps ensure that radiation doses remain in a range low enough to minimize the chance of deterministic injuries while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information.