What safety measure should be taken when performing a radiographic exam on pregnant patients?

When performing a radiographic exam on pregnant patients, the safety measure of utilizing shielding and only performing necessary exams is crucial. This approach minimizes the potential risks associated with ionizing radiation exposure to the developing fetus.

Pregnant patients are particularly sensitive to the effects of radiation, especially during the first trimester when the fetus is rapidly developing and is more susceptible to the harmful effects of radiation. By using appropriate shielding techniques, which can include lead aprons, the amount of radiation that reaches the abdomen and fetus can be significantly reduced.

Additionally, careful consideration must be given to the necessity of the exam itself. The principle of "justification" is important in radiology, meaning that only those exams that are clinically indicated should be performed. This ensures that the benefits of the examination outweigh the potential risks to both the mother and the fetus.

In contrast, options that involve increasing exposure time or using high dose techniques would unnecessarily elevate the radiation dose to the patient, posing greater risks. Performing exams without regard to necessity disregards patient safety and medical ethics. Thus, the chosen safety measure aligns with established guidelines for protecting both pregnant patients and their developing children during radiographic procedures.