Question

You are concerned about the safety of working in a facility that performs x-ray studies on site. Which statement is true about your risk of radiation exposure as an employee in the facility?

A) The x-ray room collects radiation over time
B) Scatter radiation is present at all times
C) The only time a radiation hazard exists is during the x-ray exposure itself
D) People consistently exposed to scatter radiation have a shortened life span

Answer 1

The only time a radiation hazard exists is during the x-ray exposure itself, as radiation does not accumulate over time in the room and scatter radiation is not present constantly. Safety measures adopted in medical facilities mitigate the risks to employees.

Step-by-step explanation:

Your concern about safety and radiation exposure as an employee in a facility performing x-ray studies is valid. To address the statement regarding the risk of radiation exposure:

C) The only time a radiation hazard exists is during the x-ray exposure itself.

Radiation does not accumulate in the x-ray room over time as it dissipates immediately after the machine is turned off, hence scatter radiation isn't incessantly present. Additionally, the claim that people consistently exposed to scatter radiation have a shortened life span is an overstatement, as the risk depends on the amount of exposure and appropriate safety measures can greatly mitigate that risk. Overexposure to x-rays can contribute to cancer risks, and that's why radiation protection measures are strictly adhered to in medical facilities. These include minimizing the time spent in a radiation environment, maintaining distance from the radiation source, and using adequate shielding. Proper compliance with these measures reduces the risks to employees in such environments significantly.