Final answer:
The maximum dose an embryo/fetus may receive during any given month is 50 mrem, which is considered a relatively low dose to protect the developing fetus, though efforts are made to minimize even this exposure to prevent long-term health effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maximum dose an embryo/fetus may receive during any given month is 50 mrem. This limit is set to protect the developing fetus from potential health effects of radiation. Compared to higher doses of radiation, which can be much more harmful and even fatal, 50 mrem is considered relatively low. However, it's important to note that even at this lower level, exposure to radiation should be minimized to avoid possible long-term health problems such as cancer or genetic changes. Within the United States, the total annual radiation exposure for a person averages about 620 mrem, coming from various sources as illustrated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Medical uses of nuclear radiation, such as X-rays and CT scans, contribute to this number but are typically justified by the health benefits they provide.