Patient Protection
What is the purpose of prescribing dental images?
To determine the number, type, and frequency of dental images based on professional judgment.
What is a thyroid collar?
A flexible lead shield placed around the patient's neck to protect the thyroid gland from scatter radiation.
What is the ALARA concept?
As Low As Reasonably Achievable, promoting methods to reduce radiation exposure.
What is the MPD for nonoccupationally exposed persons?
1 mSv/year (0.1 rem/year).
What role does patient education play?
It informs patients about radiation safety and the importance of minimizing exposure.
What is inherent filtration?
Inherent filtration occurs when the primary beam passes through the x-ray tube's glass window and other components, equivalent to approximately 0.5 to 1.0 mm of aluminum.
Why is a lead apron used?
It protects reproductive organs and blood-forming tissues from scatter radiation.
What is the maximum permissible dose for occupational exposure?
50 mSv/year (0.05 Sv/year or 5.0 rem/year).
How does filtration affect x-ray beams?
It removes lower energy x-rays, resulting in a higher-energy and more penetrating useful beam.
What are the effects of scatter radiation?
Scatter radiation can expose both patients and operators to unnecessary radiation.
What is collimation?
Collimation restricts the size and shape of the x-ray beam, reducing patient exposure.
What is digital imaging?
Digital image receptors that require less radiation exposure for the patient.
What is the cumulative occupational dose?
The dose accumulated over a lifetime, not exceeding the worker’s age multiplied by 10 mSv.
Why is equipment compliance important?
To minimize radiation exposure to patients according to state and federal guidelines.
What is the purpose of reducing radiation exposure?
To protect patients and operators from the potential harmful effects of radiation.
What does the position-indicating device do?
It directs the x-ray beam and may come in conical, rectangular, or round shapes.
What is a beam alignment device?
A device that stabilizes the receptor in the mouth, reducing the chance for movement.
How far should the operator stand during exposure?
At least 6 feet from the tubehead.
What are the recommendations for operator distance?
Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from the x-ray tubehead.
How does the operator ensure safety after exposure?
: By following established protocols and guidelines for radiation safety.
What is added filtration?
An aluminum disk located between the collimator and tubehead seal that filters out longer wavelength, lower energy x-rays.
How is exposure factor selection performed?
By adjusting kVp, milliamperage, and time settings on the control panel to limit x-radiation exposure.
What are shielding recommendations?
Guidelines for using protective barriers during radiation exposure.
What is the purpose of radiation monitoring?
To track and ensure that radiation exposure remains within safe limits.
Why is monitoring important for radiation safety?
To ensure compliance with safety regulations and to protect health care workers and patients.