Title: Radiation Safety and Protection in DR/RT
1729 words
Introduction
Health Physics is concerned with providing occupational radiation protection and minimizing radiation dose to the public. Every technologist has the obligation to always ensure that the radiation dose to both the patient and other health care professionals are kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) without compromising the diagnostic value of the image.
Cardinal Principles of Radiation Protection
All health physics activities in radiology are designed to minimize the radiation exposure of patients and personnel. The three cardinal principles are effective in reducing radiation exposure in diagnostic radiology.
Minimize Time
During radiography, the …show more content…
Although the device does not reduce the dose to the wearer, exposure history has an important impact on protection practices. Radiologic technologists should ensure individuals present during x-ray operation wear personnel monitors as appropriate. Mechanical holding devices (e.g. compression bands, sponges, sandbags and 2-inch-wide tape) are effective tools for the immobilization of patients and should be used if the procedure permits. Only as a last resort should someone hold the …show more content…
• A hospital employee who is not occupationally exposed may be used to hold the patient if necessary.
If an individual holds the patient, he or she is provided with a protective apron and gloves. The individual is positioned so that no part of his or her body except hands and arms is exposed by the primary beam. Only individuals required for the radiographic procedure should be in the room during exposure. All persons in the room except the patient are provided protective devices. Close collimation, filtration of the primary beam, optimum kV technique, high-speed image receptors and avoidance of repeat projections reduce the dose to the patient. Practice the three cardinal principles of radiation protection: time, distance, and shielding. The technologist should minimize the time in the radiation field, stand as far away from the source as possible, and use shielding (protective devices or control booth barrier). For individuals not shielded by protective barrier during x-ray operation, the radiologic technologist should ensure that these persons wear lead aprons and gloves as