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Answer to Question #864 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Radiation Workers The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
As a radiographer, is it not important to measure radiation doses received by extremities, heads, and places not covered by lead gowns (for example, in operating theatres, mobile exams, angiography, etc.) as well as doses to unsuspecting patients in neighboring beds (for example, intensive care units and wards) from mobile exams?
I am currently doing a project regarding dose to radiographers. Do you know of any good Web sites or journals where I can get further information?
A
The structure that guides the assignment of occupational doses is based on principles that are discussed in NCRP Report No. 115, "Risk Estimates for Radiation Protection." Acceptable occupational doses consider, among other things, the radiosensitivity of the organ(s) and organ systems being irradiated. For this reason, occupational doses to extremities, including the hands, are assigned values that are significantly higher than doses assigned to the remainder of the body. The same principles apply during radiological examinations of patients. Areas containing radiosensitive structures, such as the abdomen, may be covered with leaded shields during radiological examinations, provided that the shield does not interfere with the intent of the procedure. Other portions of the body that do not contain radiosensitive organs may not need to be shielded. In general, the exposure to portions of the patient's body not in the useful beam is less than the exposure rate in the primary beam by a factor of at least 1/1,000 or 0.001. As an example, for a chest x ray (the most common exam in a recovery or intensive care unit) the dose in the useful beam is typically less than 30 mrem. The dose to the head of the patient undergoing the chest x ray would be less than 10 mrem. The dose to a patient in an adjacent bed would be further reduced by the increased distance from the patient receiving the x ray and would be on the order of 1 mrem. Patients requiring more extensive radiological exams would generally be taken to an x-ray room. It is certainly not uncommon to move patients requiring oxygen and medical support to an x-ray department, particularly for CT or other specialty exams. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) has a Web site that can provide links to further information. The ASRT also publishes a journal for its members. Jean St. Germain, CHP
Answer posted on 25 June 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.
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