Radiation Regulations — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: C — The dentist requesting the radiograph
Under IRMER 2017, the 'referrer' is a registered healthcare professional entitled by the employer to refer individuals for exposure. In dental practice, this is typically the dentist making the clinical decision to prescribe the radiograph based on clinical need (option A). The referrer must have performed or be aware of a history and clinical examination and must provide the IRMER practitioner with sufficient information to justify the exposure. The dental nurse (option B) is the 'operator' who performs the exposure—role separation is a key IRMER principle and dental nurses cannot be referrers. The patient (option C) does not make clinical decisions for themselves. The dental radiographer (option D) takes the image (operator role), and the practice manager (option E) is part of the employer (legal person) but not a clinical referrer. This tests understanding of IRMER role definitions and the critical distinction between referral (clinical decision) and exposure (technical performance).
Reference: The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017 (UK legislation), s. 2 Interpretation; and SDCEP Practice Support Manual – Radiation Protection. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2017/1322 and https://www.psm.sdcep.org.uk/topics/radiation-protection/formal-appointments-and-entitlement-of-personnel/requirements-within-the-practice/