Download BACK TO BASICS

BACK TO BASICS
Imaging Children.
Guide to Radiation Protection.
Faith Constantine
21/04/2012
Overview of radiation protection for paediatrics.
Why children are different – not “little adults”.
“The fact that the x-ray is taken of a non-cooperative child is NOT an excuse for
producing an inferior quality image.”
Public awareness and Google has highlighted concerns about irradiating children.
Radiographer is the “child protector” – is the examination justified?
Best practice guidelines.
Use of CR and DR. Also CT and floruoscopy.
Avoidance of grids.
Additional filtration.
Not below 60 kv.
High voltage generators.
Do not use capacitor discharge units.
Avoidance of using AECs unless can perform precise positioning over chambers.
Exposure charts
Short exposure times.
Viewing conditions, regular QA and reject analysis.
Staff competency.
Use of gonad protection – latest report.
Lead protection – from primary and scatter. Lead aprons.
Dedicated paed room
Links with paediatric teams – meetings.
Advice from medical physics.
Immobilisation, carers.
Play specialist.
“Don’t be afraid to ask – no one knows it all”