Final answer:
The recommended techniques for optimum chest radiography include using a short exposure time to minimize motion blur and radiation exposure, and also utilizing a high kVp setting which enables a lower mAs to be used while still ensuring a clear image.
Step-by-step explanation:
To achieve optimum chest radiography, certain techniques are recommended for use. One of the key elements in ensuring high-quality images with minimum radiation exposure is using a short exposure time. This minimizes the potential for image blur due to patient movement and also reduces the amount of radiation the patient is exposed to. Additionally, using a high kilovoltage peak (kVp) setting is important because it allows X-ray photons to have enough energy to penetrate through the chest and produce a clear image. Exposing at a higher kVp also allows for the use of lower milliampere-seconds (mAs), which reduces the radiation dose to the patient. Optimal breathing techniques are also critical; patients are often instructed to take a deep breath and hold it during the exposure to avoid motion blur and to better visualize the lungs and the heart. Therefore, to answer the student's question, the recommended techniques for optimum chest radiography include a) short exposure time and b) high kVp.