Abstract
Optimization of radiation protection has always been a priority, especially in pediatrics. Due to the growing number of examinations it is necessary to focus on the basic principles of radiation protection - justification and optimization.
A useful tool for optimaliza-tion is establishing local diagnostic reference levels (DRL). Another key role is the setting and adjustment of the radiological device used for children.
Although each modality is specific, some general rules exist. The adjustment of exposure settings, automatic exposure control, or using the manual mode.
In CT, the dose is significantly affected by the choice of the right examination protocol according to patient age, bodymass or diagnosis. Optimization of radiation protection is a complex of many interconnected steps.
Optimization, also in pediatrics does not mean that the dose must be at minimum at all costs. Optimization means that the dose must be minimal for