What equipment is primarily utilized to immobilize patients during a procedure?

The primary equipment used to immobilize patients during a procedure is sandbags or straps. These devices are designed to help prevent movement, ensuring that the patient remains still for accurate imaging. Immobilization is crucial in radiology to produce clear and high-quality images, as even slight movements can blur the results and necessitate repeat imaging, which can increase patient exposure to radiation and prolong the procedure.

Sandbags are typically filled with materials that provide weight and stability, and they can be placed on different parts of the body to help maintain the desired position. Straps work similarly by securely holding a patient in place, especially in cases where they may be unable to follow instructions for remaining still.

In contrast, ultrasound gel is used to improve the transmission of ultrasound waves but does not contribute to patient immobilization. Lead aprons serve a different purpose, providing radiation protection for both patients and healthcare workers without actively immobilizing the patient. Radiographic grids are utilized to improve the quality of radiographic images by reducing scattered radiation but do not aid in keeping a patient still during a procedure. Thus, the effective use of sandbags or straps is crucial for quality imaging in a radiological setting.