Question

If a radiologic examination must be performed during pregnancy, what safeguards can be used for both patient and fetal protection?

1) Accurate collimation
2) Double-shielding
3) Use of low kVp techniques
4) Limited protocols

Answer 1

To protect both the patient and the fetus during a radiologic examination in pregnancy, safeguards such as accurate collimation, double-shielding, low kVp techniques, and limited protocols can be used.

Step-by-step explanation:

To protect both the patient and the fetus during a radiologic examination in pregnancy, several safeguards can be used:

1. Accurate collimation: This involves using lead collimators to restrict the x-ray beam to only the necessary area, minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure.
2. Double-shielding: This means using both a lead apron and a lead shielding curtain to provide additional protection against scattered radiation.
3. Use of low kVp techniques: Lowering the kilovoltage peak (kVp) helps reduce the radiation dose without compromising image quality.
4. Limited protocols: Limiting the number and extent of imaging studies can help reduce the overall radiation exposure.