radiation exposure

[misha12]

I have shadowed a CRNA on two different occasions and neither of those have involved surgeries that used x-ray / fluoro. I had never really even thought about that as a job hazard (I know lead suits / shields are used when necessary). Can any CRNAs or SRNAs talk about how often you are exposed to radiation whether in inpatient or outpatient settings? I know precautions are taken.. but in my anal mind I feel as though it may not always be enough and know in the past there were more cancers correlated for OR personnel, although technology is improving. So, I'm just wondering how often you are exposed? Thanks!

[BCRNA]

Constantly. Is possible to get jobs where you get no exposure, but would have to be GI endoscopy or eye surgery center. Wearing lead, keeping your distance is a must. Also wear dosimeter to record exposure levels. Most CRNA's are involved in some type of radiation exposure, Not as bad as orthopedic surgeons or radiologist though. Also exposed to magnetic fields in MRI room, we can't leave the room.

It is pretty safe if you always follow precautions and keep your distance when able to. But there is constant exposure of some kind. They claim it is harmless though, may find out differently in thirty years. X-ray techs seem pretty cavalier about using fluoro without aprons on where I work.

[Class2011]

And the X-Ray techs are also cavalier about whether I wear an apron or not in that they are p*&s Poor about warning you, providing gear, etc

I've complained, but will have little impact ... small hospital, entrenched ways ... would not have been tolerated in my old ICU

[misha12]

Thanks both of you for replying! That is scary that the x-ray techs aren't really giving you the option of protection... do your dosimeters always record "safe" levels??

[Class2011]

what dosimeters? this hole of a hospital stopped using them