|
|
|
|
Basic Considerations of
Radiation Safety and Barrier Protection
To date, neither the FDA nor the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
mandates radiation protection for healthcare professionals. It is acknowledged that
the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) guidelines state
that no part of the body should be directly exposed to radiation. If there is a
danger of exposing a body part, appropriate protection must be used. "Lead aprons,
gloves, and goggles should be worn by workers located in the direct field or in
areas where radiation levels from scattering are high." However, based on glove
wearing and other protective items compliance data, any definitive legislation in
the United States would certainly require a strong educational approach. Until such
regulations are in place, it is imperative to provide all healthcare professionals
with information and education, especially as it relates to hand injuries resulting
from exposure to scattered and secondary radiation.
Although many physicians and interventionalists are aware of and concerned about
the risks to their health, many focus foremost on the patient and the task at hand;
focus is placed secondly on the cumulative exposure procedures during a time period;
and lastly on their own protection.
It was noted in a study by Marx et al. that nearly half the respondents rarely or
never wore their mandatory radiation badges; that 73% rarely or never wore lead
glasses; and 83% rarely or never wore gloves. Lipsitz concluded that "there can
be significant complacency even among the population of physicians who are at the
most risk and who have had substantial training in radiation and physics."7
|
Previous Page |
Table of Contents | Next Page
|
|