Answer to Question #641 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Workers — Pregnant Workers

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

Should a pregnant radiographer stand out during flouroscopy?

There is no need for a pregnant radiographer or other staff (for example, nurses, radiologists, etc.) to stand outside of the room during a fluoroscopic procedure or any diagnostic radiology procedure as long as she is wearing a lead apron. It would be prudent for pregnant staff to wear a personal radiation monitor (TLD or similar device) under the apron at abdominal level to monitor any radiation received under the apron. It should be stressed that the reading on this second badge is not the fetal exposure as the radiation must pass through several additional centimeters of tissue before reaching the fetus. The personal radiation monitor under the apron will, in most cases, read "M" (minimal) which indicates to the pregnant staff person that the fetus received little or no additional radiation exposure as a result of the mother's occupation.

Answer posted on February 6, 2001. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.