Answer to Question #9517 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Medical and Dental Patient Issues — MRI

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

Q
Are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound technologists in the radiology department required to wear radiation personal monitors? Is there any guideline on it?
A

From NCRP Report #105, Radiation Protection for Medical and Allied Health Personnel:
"Since ultrasound equipment does not produce or use ionizing radiation, ultrasonographers do not require personnel monitoring. However, since most ultrasound equipment is located in radiology departments and ultrasonographers may have to examine a patient shortly after a nuclear medicine study, the RSO may require the wearing of personnel dosimeters. Ultrasonographers should contact the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) for a review of their particular situation." (National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, p. 83).

Note that this is a recommendation, however, it corresponds to typical practice and would include MRI technologists as well.

Ken "Duke" Lovins, MS, CHP



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