[aviator411]

The diversity of posts which have appeared on this subject over the years and which continue to appear reinforces the notion that none of us really know the answer. Practices vary all over the place. Some leave the room, some don't...............

Without advice from an "authoritative" source we are all just comparing practices and experiences which is not an authoritative source of advice or information. The practices which are allowed or followed in some facilities are sometimes totally out of phase with best practice or sound advice. Don't base your vital decisions on gossip.

To say that radiation CAN be cumulative is wrong. Radiation effects ARE cumulative. Very small doses over a career or lifetime can be disastrous. Demand the facts.

[TrudyRN]

Always protect yourself. Apron, gloves, thyroid collar, dosimeter badge. Why take risks?

[Kimbalou]

Originally Posted by BittyBabyGrower

We wore the badges for a year and they barely registered anything. The amount of radiation used on neonates is low, but it can have an accumulative effect. As long as you are 6 feet away, you are protected from the scatter. We wear the aprons when we hold and we hold for our preggies too. Even the docs will hold for them. Basically one isolette length aways is adequete, providing your isolettes are not on top of each other.

I've heard the same thing, that 6 feet is far enough. I sometimes think all the fuss about running away from an xray is a little too much. 6 feet is far enough for me, I'm not going to leave the room.

[texas2007]

Our xray tech told me to either wear an apron or stand at least 6 feet away also.

[CSM08MMS]

In regard to this, we have a little guy in our unit who's dad requested we put a lead shield over his baby's boy parts for each x-ray, and for x-rays on kids in close vicinity. He is afraid of testicular radiation damage. How real of a concern is this? I kinda giggled about it when I heard it in report, but it may be a legit concern. Obviously it's hard to fulfill that request getting a KUB or a left lat decub.

What do you all think?

[lovemyjob]

I have been told that it is not enough radiation to even show an xray of my hand, so I am lazy and dont wear one. I dont make it a point to run to the bedside when one is being done, but I dont run away either LOL!!!

[wensday]

Our senior radiographer once shouted at me because I said I was 'alright' when he asked me to leave the room for an xray. He said 'you are NOT alright' and went on for quite some time about how dangerous it is. Now I leave the room and make sure there is an actual wall or door between me and the machine because apparently even the window isn't good enough. I trust him too.