Kodak RA Procedures

• Kodak RA film is commonly used by radioligists to develop x-rays. ballyscanlon/Stockbyte/Getty Images

  Kodak RA film is used in the health care field as a medical x-ray film. This film from Kodak is very sensitive and provides medical personnel with high-speed exposures and wide-frame shots. The film is specially coated to reduce static electricity and aid in the exposure of the film when exposed to radiographic procedures. Because of the specialty uses of this film, it requires careful handling and storage procedures to ensure it isn't damaged prior to use.

Handling

• The film should only be handled by a person with clean hands. Wash away any lotion that could be present on your hands prior to the handling of Kodak RA film, because some lotion ingredients can cause the film to start degrading. Clean, dry hands that are free of all lotions or other substances should be mandatory when handling Kodak RA film. Only touch the film at the edges and then as little as possible. This avoids fingerprints in the center of the film, where they could affect the clarity of the image.

Storage

• Keep Kodak RA film temperature-controlled at all times. Film that is allowed to become too warm may not develop correctly if at all. It can also become stuck together at warmer temperatures. Film that sticks together cannot be used. To properly store Kodak RA film, keep it at 10 to 24 degrees Celsius or 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Protect unexposed film from any radiation that could penetrate the storage area. Store film that has been exposed in a cool, dry place to ensure the clarity of the image on the film.

Processing

• You can process Kodak RA film in an automated machine or manually. When the film is processed in the machine the process is automatic and requires no intervention. If you process the film manually, then both time and temperature restrictions apply. In emergency situations, you can process the film in about 8-1/2 minutes. The result of this fast processing may affect the clarity of the picture, but it should result in an image clear enough to enable the start of medical care. The Kodak RA film must be kept at approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The film needs to remain in the developer for 2 minutes, the stop bath for 20 seconds, the fixer fluid for 1 minute, and the running water wash for 5 minutes. Hang the Kodak RA film to dry after developing.