Which of the following describes a job duty of a DXA operator?

• A. Evaluating patient histories for contraindications
• B. Performing surgical procedures
• C. Monitoring financial transactions
• D. Batch processing patient data

Answer: (A)

A DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) operator plays a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and the accuracy of bone density assessments. Evaluating patient histories for contraindications is an essential job duty because it helps in determining whether it is appropriate to proceed with the DXA scan. For instance, certain conditions or prior medical treatments may affect bone density readings or pose risks during the scanning process.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the core responsibilities of a DXA operator. Performing surgical procedures falls outside the scope of a DXA operator's duties, as they are not trained to conduct surgeries. Monitoring financial transactions relates to administrative tasks that are generally assigned to billing or finance departments. Similarly, batch processing patient data, while related to data management, does not specifically pertain to the individual duties of a DXA operator, which focus more on patient interaction, scan execution, and data interpretation.