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Tag: radiation protection

Radiation Dose in Modern Diagnostic Radiology

radiation dose control

Over the past several decades, the use of ionizing radiation in medical imaging has increased dramatically. This has resulted in a substantial increase in the radiation dose humans are exposed to. In 1950, approximately 25 million radiographic and fluoroscopic exams were performed. This number skyrocketed to nearly 300 million by the mid-2000s. In the 1980s, only 15 percent of all artificial radiation exposure was on account of medical imaging; by the mid-2000s, this figure had risen to almost 50 percent.

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Patient Radiation Dose Measurement in Fluoroscopy and CT Examinations

Fluoroscopy and patient radiation dose

Radiation dose represents the energy deposited per unit mass of tissue. It is typically measured in Gray (Joules/kg). This deposition of energy may cause damage the tissues, and therefore, patient radiation dose must be measured and monitored. Patients are exposed to some of the largest doses of radiation during fluoroscopically-guided procedures and computed tomography examinations. Radiologic technologists play a key role in limiting this dose, based on the ALARA principle, by using the correct imaging techniques.

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Occupational Radiation Exposure Limit: Are You Safe?

occupational radiation exposure limit

Radiologic technologists and other healthcare workers are exposed to X-rays in the course of their work duties. There are certain occupational radiation exposure limits for X-ray techs. Remaining within these limits is essential for safety in the workplace. Read on to refresh your knowledge on the key safety limits with regards to occupational radiation exposure.

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Radiation Protection Clothes for X-ray Techs

radiation protection clothes

Several types of radiation protection clothes are available to X-ray techs. The use of these garments protects radiologic technologists from exposure to scatter radiation. However, some imaging modalities are associated with a very low exposure to occupational radiation exposure. Radiologic technologists performing these examinations may not require special radiation protection clothes.

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Radiation Safety for Healthcare Workers

radiation safety of healthcare workers
A healthcare worker positions a patient for a mammogram

It is estimated that approximately 1 million people employed in health facilities around the world are exposed to radiation in the course of their work duties. This makes the radiation safety of healthcare workers an important consideration. The International Labor Organization regards any exposure to ionizing radiation received at the workplace as occupational exposure. A healthcare worker’s total radiation exposure also includes natural background exposure received during working hours. However, since the latter is a consequence of living on Planet Earth and occurs regardless of occupation, it is not the responsibility of the employer and is not subject to regulatory controls.

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