Pregnancy and xrays in the OR

GCShore · Aug 13, 2005

i am a student nurse and is currently 28 weeks pregnant. i was assigned to observe in the OR where they were doing closed reduction on a fracture and it required that they take several xrays during the procedure. they had me wear a lead apron but im still concerned on how the radiation can affect my baby. is it going to affect my baby in any way especially since im entering the third trimester of my pregnancy? i would really appreciate any input. thanks!

Hello,

I am pretty sure that you will be okay.....time, shield, and distance, I think are the 3 things that protect you from xrays....I worked in the EP lab with my first child and wore wrap around lead around continuous fluoroscopy.....I worked in the OR with my second baby (all that way up to the day I delivered with both).....now with the third child, I had an office job that was not as active and I gained the most weight..... :rotfl: Don't worry!

GCShore

suzanne4, RN · Aug 13, 2005

There are many pregnant nurses, as well as physicians in the OR. What you wore was quite appropriate. I would not worry about it.

ClaireMacl · Aug 13, 2005

Ditto what everyone else wrote... firstly, you are in your third trimester, therefore the safest period, the lead apron gives complete protection for the baby.

I completely understand (and commend) that you are concerned for your unborn baby, but I'm sure you can sleep soundly in the knowledge you done everything right :)