Chapters 10 & 15 — Radiation Dose Limits and Management of Imaging Personnel Exposure

These flashcards cover key concepts from Chapters 10 and 15 related to radiation dose limits and the management of imaging personnel exposure.

What is the purpose of dose limits in radiation exposure?

To protect the general public, patients, and radiation workers while keeping exposure As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).

What does the ALARA principle stand for?

As Low As Reasonably Achievable.

Which organization sets international guidelines for radiation protection?

ICRP (International Commission on Radiological Protection).

What is the annual occupational dose limit for radiation workers?

50 mSv/year.

Who oversees the Radiation Safety Program in imaging facilities?

Radiation Safety Officer (RSO).

What is the cumulative occupational dose limit formula?

10 mSv multiplied by age.

What is the dose limit for pregnant workers per month?

0.5 mSv/month.

What are stochastic effects in radiation exposure?

Effects where probability of occurrence increases with dose.

What agency implements radiation protection guidelines in the U.S.?

NCRP (National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements).

What is the primary responsibility of the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)?

To develop safety programs and enforce policies.

What is the dose limit for the general public?

1 mSv/year.

What theory suggests that low doses of radiation may have beneficial effects?

Radiation Hormesis.

How can exposure time be reduced in radiation practices?

By minimizing the duration of exposure.

What is the significance of the inverse square law in radiation safety?

Doubling the distance from the radiation source reduces exposure by a factor of four.

What is one method of shielding used during radiation procedures?

Lead barriers, aprons, or thyroid shields.

What should be worn by personnel during fluoroscopy procedures for safety?

Dosimeters worn at the collar outside the apron.

What is the limit for total radiation dose during pregnancy?

Less than 5.0 mSv.

Which act covers health and safety standards for radiation control?

Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act (1968).

What effect does the severity of tissue radiation effects have with increased dose?

Deterministic effects increase severity with dose.

What protective measures are recommended during high-level interventional procedures?

Use ceiling shields and leaded glasses, limit fluoroscopy time.

What type of radiation effects does the term 'deterministic' refer to?

Effects where severity increases with dose.

Which regulatory agency focuses on environmental protection including radiation?

EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

What does the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act (1981) address?

Standards for radiation safety for patients.

How should personnel be positioned during mobile radiography?

Stand at least 6 feet away, use shielding, and limit nearby personnel.

What is a key safety practice when using C-arm fluoroscopy?

Rotate personnel to limit exposure.

In terms of design, what should diagnostic X-ray suites include?

Barriers, warning signs, and proper beam direction.

What should pregnant personnel do to ensure safety and monitoring?

Declare pregnancy and wear an extra dosimeter under the apron at the waist.

In what ways does Chapter 10 connect with Chapter 15 regarding dose limits?

Chapter 10 defines limits while Chapter 15 applies them in practice.

How does the ALARA principle connect between Chapters 10 and 15?

Chapter 10 introduces it, while Chapter 15 implements it practically.

What is the maximum allowable radiation dose for educational and training purposes?

1 mSv/year.

What are the responsibilities of the NRC with regard to radiation?

Regulate the use of nuclear energy and radioactive materials.

Why is monitoring important for pregnant radiation workers?

To ensure that the fetal dose remains within safe limits.

What methods can be used to implement the ALARA principle in practice?

Reducing time, increasing distance, and using shielding.

What is the role of UNSCEAR in radiation exposure?

Studies the effects of radiation exposure.

Name one form of personal protection used during mobile radiography procedures?

Lead aprons or shields.

During fluoroscopy, what should be utilized for personnel protection?

Control barriers, protective curtains, and Bucky slot cover.

Where is the radiation dose measured for personnel during procedures?

At the collar outside the apron.

What practice can help manage higher doses during interventional procedures?

Use pulsed mode and hold the last image.