Radiation Exposure

[Helen_, RN]

Dear all,

I currently work in radiology, which is a whole new speciality to me as I was a ward/clinic nurse for more than a decade. I've been working in the department for three months. Today, I entered the room without knowing that the radiographer was warming up the CT scan machine. 

I admit that this happened out of my own carelessness. Usually an indicator with a red light turns on whenever the machine emits radiation. I failed to check before entering.

The radiographer spoke to me and advised to be more careful in future. But, I am quite worried... Could the few seconds of radiation exposure harm me in any way?

Anyone with similar experience? I might be over thinking this... I guess I need some assurances that I won't get cancer or anything...

[canoehead, BSN, RN]

If they are warming it up, does it emit radiation?

[Helen_, RN]

They do emit radiation when warming up

[MelEpiRN]

OK...but does it emit more radiation while warming up than a patient gets during a CT scan?

We scan people all day every day. They don't all get cancer. 

[chare]

Have you discussed this with your facility's radiation safety officer?  He or she would better able to answer concerns.

Best wishes.

[offlabel]

don't worry about it and be more careful next time