What action is taken when QC testing data indicates that equipment is not operating within control limits?

When quality control (QC) testing data shows that the equipment is not operating within control limits, the appropriate action is to implement corrective action. This procedure is essential to ensure the equipment returns to optimal operating condition and continues to provide accurate and reliable results. Corrective actions may involve troubleshooting, adjusting settings, or repairing the equipment, and are crucial in maintaining the integrity of mammography imaging.

Addressing deviations promptly helps prevent potential harm to patients and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidelines. This step is fundamental in radiological practice, as it safeguards not only the quality of imaging but also the safety and well-being of patients undergoing mammographic examinations.

While contacting a service engineer or stopping patient imaging are steps that could be taken following the identification of a problem, they are secondary to the immediate requirement to correct the underlying issue to restore the system's functionality.