6 4
S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P AT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4
Answer:
d
That's why wearing lead aprons is so important. But it's also important to note
that aprons provide that high level of protection only if they're properly cared
for. They should be hung between uses and visually checked for imperfections
before each case. Clean them according to the manufacturer's instructions (ours
say to use only soap and water). X-ray the aprons annually to ensure they
remain free of voids that can leave the wearer exposed. We lay ours on a
translucent table and use fluoroscopy to check the integrity of each. We number
each apron and keep a report of the inspection in our radiology book, which is
reviewed annually and whenever an apron is taken out of service.
Where on lead aprons should staff
and physicians wear dosimeters to capture the
most accurate readings of their exposure to radiation scatter?
a.
the midline
c.
upper right side
b.
upper left side
d.
the collar
Answer:
d
Staff and surgeons need to understand the importance of accurately tracking their
levels of radiation exposure. Doing so lets administrators identify caregivers with
high levels of accumulated exposure and hold them out of imaging cases for a
time. We collect dosimeters assigned to individual staffers on a quarterly basis,
send them out for analysis and review the report that comes back to see if any-
one's readings are higher than normal. High readings are rare in the outpatient set-
ting, but I've seen pain management physicians with concerning levels of expo-
sure.
You can alert them about their risk based on the dosimeter readings, but
they're ultimately responsible for their own well-being. Most take the warning to
heart, but some — the ones in denial — will ignore it. Surgical teams learn the
C - A R M S A F E T Y
