Which method is NOT effective in minimizing radiation exposure in a clinical setting?

Using an outdated radiation badge is not effective in minimizing radiation exposure because the purpose of a radiation badge is to monitor the amount of radiation that a person has been exposed to over a specific period. An outdated badge may not provide accurate readings or reflect current exposure levels, which could lead to misinterpretation of a person's safety status and potentially result in unsafe practices.

In contrast, other methods such as using lead shielding, increasing distance from the radiation source, and reducing the time spent near the source are key safety practices in radiation protection. Lead shielding acts as a barrier to absorb radiation and protect individuals, thereby effectively lowering exposure. Increasing distance from the source utilizes the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation decreases with increasing distance from the source, resulting in lower exposure. Finally, reducing time spent near the source limits the duration of exposure, which directly correlates to the total dose received; thus, minimizing the time effectively reduces the risk of harm from radiation. These methods are well recognized as essential components of radiation safety protocols in clinical settings.