Final answer:
To answer questions about radiation received from radiographic procedures, convert the exposure in mSv to the absorbed dose in Gy using conversion factors, aiming to provide a clear understanding in line with the risk versus benefit of such exposures. Dosimeters and risk assessment guides aid in this process.
Step-by-step explanation:
To answer patients' questions about the amount of radiation received from a radiographic procedure, it is essential to translate the exposure measured in millisieverts (mSv) into the absorbed dose in grays (Gy). For instance, a fluoroscopic x-ray series that delivers a dose of 10 mSv can be converted to Gy by understanding that 1 Gy is equivalent to 1 Joule per kilogram (J/kg) and also equals 100 rads, hence 10 mSv is 0.01 Gy. Similarly, a skin exposure by an alpha emitter of 50 mSv is 0.05 Gy, and 160 mSv from beta and gamma rays from potassium in the body equals 0.16 Gy.
The conversion is facilitated by the use of dosimeters that measure exposure, which can then be converted into the appropriate unit for reporting to the patient, ensuring the region of interest such as the whole body or a specific limb is specified. This explanation aligns with the concept of risk versus benefit, ensuring radiation is used only when necessary and the dose delivered is justified by the diagnostic or therapeutic benefits.