Under IR(ME)R, what is the term for the principle aimed at using the lowest possible radiation dose to produce a viable image?

The principle aimed at using the lowest possible radiation dose to produce a viable image is referred to as optimization. This concept ensures that diagnostic imaging practices minimize the exposure to ionizing radiation for patients while still achieving images of sufficient quality for accurate diagnosis.

Optimization involves adjusting technical factors and using appropriate imaging protocols that achieve the required diagnostic information without exposing patients to unnecessary radiation. This principle is crucial in the context of radiographic practices to enhance patient safety and reduce the potential for radiation-related harm. In this way, it strikes a balance between the need for sufficient image quality and the necessity of keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA).

In contrast, justification refers to the need to ensure that any radiological procedure should offer more benefit than risk. Quality assurance involves ongoing checks and maintenance of imaging equipment to ensure it operates correctly and produces quality images. Risk assessment involves analyzing potential risks involved in procedures but does not specifically deal with radiation dose levels.