Under what circumstances should a radiographer escalate to the radiologist?

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The key idea is that you escalate to the radiologist whenever there is uncertainty that could affect patient safety or image quality. If you’re unsure about the patient’s risk, whether the chosen technique is appropriate, or whether a re-imaging is needed, getting radiologist input helps adjust the protocol, confirm safety, and decide on additional views or alternative imaging. This is a routine safety and quality practice, not something reserved for emergencies or only after a patient leaves. Waiting to escalate until the patient departs or never escalating would compromise safety and diagnostic accuracy. Even though emergencies require rapid communication, the trigger for escalation is real-time uncertainty or safety concerns during the imaging process.