U.S. Technologists' radiation exposure perceptions and practices.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiologic Technology
• Radiation Safety

Background:

• Persistent safety concerns exist with medical procedures utilizing ionizing radiation for imaging.
• Despite 115 years of research on radiation hazards, effective safety measures remain a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current attitudes and radiation protection practices among radiologic technologists in the U.S.
• To investigate technologist practices in light of increased medical radiation doses.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to a stratified random sample of 2000 radiologic technologists in the U.S.
• Data was collected from technologists listed in the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Main Results:

• Radiographers acknowledge the rise in U.S. population exposure from medical radiation sources.
• Some self-reported practices by radiographers may be contributing to increased radiation doses.

Conclusions:

• Radiologic technologists' awareness of increased exposure is noted, yet their practices may inadvertently elevate patient doses.
• A deficit in in-service education is a likely factor in suboptimal radiation protection.
• Standard radiation protection methods are not consistently applied, indicating a need for regular training and reinforcement.