A Fluoroscopic Credentialing/Safety Program at a Large Research Hospital

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Health
• Healthcare Quality Management

Background:

• Brigham and Women's Hospital operates a large fluoroscopy service.
• A comprehensive quality management program is in place to minimize radiation exposure.
• Regulatory bodies like the FDA have issued advisories concerning radiation safety in fluoroscopically guided procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and parameters of an enhanced fluoroscopic safety program.
• To ensure patient and personnel safety from excessive radiation doses.
• To implement formal credentialing and safety requirements for fluoroscopy users.

Main Methods:

• Expansion of an existing fluoroscopic safety course.
• Introduction of a formal credentialing and safety requirement.
• Implementation of specific program parameters to manage radiation exposure.

Main Results:

• Establishment of a more formal credentialing and safety requirement for fluoroscopic procedures.
• Integration of enhanced safety protocols into the hospital's quality management program.
• Proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with fluoroscopy.

Conclusions:

• The enhanced program aims to improve radiation safety standards in fluoroscopy.
• Formal credentialing and training are crucial for minimizing radiation risks.
• The hospital demonstrates a commitment to patient and personnel well-being through robust safety management.