Final answer:
The main source of radiation exposure for medical personnel during fluoroscopic exams is scatter from the patient. Background radiation exposes the average person to natural and human-made sources, with potential long-term effects on health. Safety measures can minimize exposure risks for healthcare providers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main source of radiation exposure for personnel during fluoroscopic exams is scatter from the patient. When X-rays pass through a patient's body during the procedure, some of those X-rays are scattered in different directions due to the interaction with the tissues. This scattered radiation is the predominant source of exposure for medical staff working in close proximity to the patient. Measures such as wearing protective lead aprons can help reduce exposure for healthcare professionals.
Background radiation is present in our everyday environment and includes natural sources like cosmic rays and radon, as well as human-made sources such as medical imaging. Long-term exposure to various types of radiation can have effects on the human body, depending on factors such as the energy of the radiation and the duration of exposure.
To minimize exposure, healthcare providers should employ safety methods such as shielding, maintaining distance, and reducing time spent near radiation sources.