What is a common practice to ensure patient safety during imaging procedures?

Using two unique identifiers for patient identification is a widely accepted practice to ensure patient safety during imaging procedures. This method helps to minimize the risk of errors associated with patient misidentification, which can lead to inappropriate imaging studies, incorrect treatment, or even harmful consequences. Unique identifiers often include the patient's full name, date of birth, or a medical record number, and utilizing two of these elements significantly enhances accuracy. This practice aligns with standards set by organizations focused on patient safety and quality care, reinforcing the necessity of thorough verification before any imaging procedure is performed.

Other options, while they may contribute to patient care, do not directly address the critical need for accurate patient identification as effectively as the use of two unique identifiers. Minimizing time in the imaging room can help with efficiency but does not ensure that the correct patient is being treated. Waiting for the patient to confirm their identity may rely on the patient's memory and awareness, which could lead to errors if the patient is confused or not fully aware. Restricting access to imaging results safeguards confidentiality but does not influence the accuracy of patient identification during procedures.