Module 1 Flashcards
What are the basics for patient protection when you consider x-ray exposure?
Guidelines for the prescription of appropriate radiographs
Proper equipment
Protocol set forth by WSU
Know what type of x-rays you’re taking before you seat the pt
What are the guidelines for the prescription of appropriate radiographs?
New pt = individualized radiographic exam consisting of PA/occlusal view, bite-wings, and pano depending on age
High risk recall pt = bite-wings every 6-12 months
Recall pt = bite-wings every 12-24 months, 18-36 months, or 24-36 months depending on age
Recall pt with perio = clinical judgment required for need and type of x-ray (bite-wings and/or PA’s) of areas where perio can be identified
Recall pt growth/development = clinical judgment required for need and type of x-ray (pano for child/teen)
Other = clinical judgement required for need and type of x-ray
Give example of proper equipment for protecting pt’s during x-rays
Lead apron
Thyroid collar
Barrier walls
What is the protocol for x-rays at WSU?
Annually, but exceptions can be made with rationale
Describe filtration
Filters out low-energy, longer wavelength x-rays within the tubehead (inherent filtration) or aided by aluminum disks placed between the collimator and the tubehead (added filtration)
What is the role of filtration in limiting the amount of x-rays to the pt?
Filters out wavelengths so the shorter wavelengths come through which are less harmful and more diagnostic because they penetrate
Describe collimation
Restricts the size and shape of the x-ray beam that exits the tubehead
What is the role of collimation in limiting the amount of x-rays to the pt?
Determines how much of the x-ray is being exposed to the pt
What are the two types of collimation?
Retangular and Circular
List 6 ways to protect the pt from excess radiation during x-ray exposure
Maintenance of equipment Use of digital sensors High film speeds (F) Pt records-date of films Proper barriers Reduce scatter radiation
Why is film handling and processing after film/image production important?
The images taken are part of the pt record and the processing and storage of quality images are important for quality pt care and for legal purposes
What factor or form of protection provides the most reduction of radiation to the pt during x-ray exposure?
Rectangular collimation
Identify protection procedures for operators of x-rays
Maintenance of dental x-ray equipment Exposure technique Radiation monitoring/film badges Protective barriers/shielding Distance/position recommendations Film/film holding devices, Digital sensors
Discuss maintenance of dental x-ray equipment
Have equipment checked regularly by state officials and make sure to put all equipment away properly (returning control arm to position), and cleaning processors
Discuss exposure technique
Never be in the direct path for the primary x-ray beam
Discuss radiation monitoring/film badges
Use individual or room film badges for verification
Discuss protective barriers
Protective barriers include lead aprons, thyroid collars, and office design of walls; if you are pregnant wear a protective apron
Discuss distance/position recommendations
You should be at least 6 ft away at 90-135 degrees or behind a barrier
Discuss film/film holding devices
Never hold a film
Discuss digital sensors
Digital sensors produce less radiation and are less harmful to the pt
Define maximum permissible dose (MPD)
Maximum dose equivalent that a body should be exposed to in a given period of time
What is the MPD for an occupationally exposed individual?
5 rems (.05 sv) per year Younger than 18 or pregnant then it is .1 rem (.001 sv) per year
What is the maximum accumulated dose for a lifetime for an occupationally exposed individual?
(N-18) x 5 rem/year or .05 sv/year; N = operators age
What is the MDP for the general public?
.1 rem (.001 sv) per year
Define the ALARA principle
“As low as reasonably achievable”; use the least amount of radiation to achieve the maximum diagnostic results (protect the pt and yourself from excessive/unnecessary primary or secondary radiation)
How can you address pt concerns regarding dental x-rays?
Discuss with the pt to gain their trust
Be knowledgeable
Explain reasons for taking x-rays like: undetected disease and pathologies, prevent small problem from becoming bigger, less time for tx = less cost to pt, unnecessary pain be avoided, explain precautions, and be patient
