Radiation 1 Flashcards
define radiobiology
the study of the action of ionizing radiation on living things
What are three reasons we need to take images?
- illness
- injury
- Screening
define efficacy
the ability to produce a desired or intended result
What is the responsibility of the referring physician?
makes the determination that an x-ray exam is necessary (weighs risk vs benefit)
What is the responsibility of the radiographer?
Takes optimal images using minimum amount of radiation exposure in order to reveal the presence or absence of a disease or injury
What is the responsibility of the radiologist?
in addition to viewing images and making a diagnosis from them, a radiologist may also be involved in directly using medical radiation equipment, such as fluoroscopic units (makes decisions to alter what imaging examination is appropriate if necessary
What does ALARA stand for?
As Low As Reasonably Achievable
What does ORP stand for?
Optimization for Radiation Protection
What are the three cardinal rules of radiation protection?
- Time
- Distance
- Shielding
What are the two main risks of irradiation?
- radiogenic cancer
- genetic defect
What does BERT stand for?
Background
Equivalent
Radiation
Time
What does BERT explain?
It gives a mean for comparison. Emphasizes that radiation is a part of our environment. Easy for patient to understand
What is the alliance for radiation safety in pediatric imaging?
to increase awareness of the need to reduce radiation dose for pediatric patients
Define radiation
is ENERGY in the form of high-speed particles or waves. (energy in motion)
What are the two types of radiation?
- non-ionizing
- Ionizing
what is the speed of light?
3 x 10^8 m/s
what is the smallest quantity of this electromagnetic energy?
photon
Do photons has a mass and an electrical charge?
no
what are photon energy measured in?
electron volts (eV)
define electromagnetic spectrum?
a continuum of various levels/types of radiation.
As one moves from left to right on the spectrum, the amount of energy increases
define ionization
addition or removal of an electron from atom
what are examples of non-ionizing radaition?
visible light, infrared, microwaves, and radio waves
What is ionizing radiation produced by?
unstable atoms