Outline the actions of the perioperative nurse to minimise the exposure risk to self and others
There are many precautions taken to maximise radiation safety for patients and the staff working in the perioperative environment.
What will be an ideal response?
Answer:
Patient:
Ensure the patient is not allergic to iodine prior to giving x-ray contrast; discuss with surgeon if the patient has such an allergy.
For female patients, check their pregnancy status; take appropriate action such as shielding to protect the fetus if the patient is pregnant.
Colleagues/self:
Staff in the vicinity of radiation should minimise their exposure; distance is the key to minimisation. Staff should stand as far away as possible to minimise exposure risk.
Non-scrubbed staff should leave the OR if possible.
Staff should wear a thyroid collar and appropriate lead gown for their body type if remaining in the vicinity, or use lead shields.
Lead gowns should be hung up when not in use to ensure creases do not crack the protective barrier, thus rendering the gown ineffective. Lead gowns should be routinely checked for safety.
Pregnant staff members should not expose themselves to additional radiation and should minimise attendance in any area requiring x-ray.
Signs should be placed at OR doors that the x-ray in use.
Radiation dose badges may be worn by some perioperative staff.
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