What is the recommended action if a phantom repeatedly fails the QA test?

• A. Change the phantom immediately
• B. Contact service for maintenance
• C. Ignore the results
• D. Recalibrate the machine without testing

Answer: (B)

When a phantom repeatedly fails the quality assurance (QA) test, the most appropriate action is to contact service for maintenance. This choice is crucial because persistent failure could indicate an underlying issue with the equipment or the phantom itself. Quality assurance tests are designed to ensure that the bone densitometry equipment is functioning correctly and producing reliable results.

If a phantom fails consistently, it suggests that either the calibration is off, the machine is malfunctioning, or there may be other technical issues that need to be addressed by a qualified technician. Contacting service for maintenance ensures that any problems can be diagnosed and resolved, thereby maintaining the integrity of the testing process and ensuring patient safety.

In contrast, simply changing the phantom might not solve the problem if the issue lies within the equipment. Ignoring the results is inappropriate as it compromises the accuracy of measurements and the care provided to patients. Recalibrating the machine without conducting a proper test may not address the underlying issue, and could lead to further inaccuracies in the results. Therefore, engaging a professional service for maintenance is the most responsible and effective course of action.