Is it safe to work in radiology while pregnant?

Can a pregnant technologist continue to perform her x-ray duties? The answer is a qualified “yes.” This assumes that: The facility is well leaded and has been inspected for safety. The operator’s booth is fully leaded, and has been inspected to ensure that the lead permits no measurable passage of x-ray.

Do pregnant radiation workers need to declare their pregnancy?

No, although it is highly recommended if you are exposed to sources of radiation. The choice of whether or not to declare your pregnancy is voluntary. If you choose to declare your pregnancy, you must do so in writing. A lower radiation dose limit will then apply to your embryo/fetus.

Is radiation harmful during pregnancy?

Radiation exposure before birth can increase a person’s risk of getting cancer later in life. Unborn babies are especially sensitive to the cancer-causing effects of radiation. However, the increased risks depend on the amount of radiation to which the baby was exposed and the amount of time that it was exposed.

What is the exposure limit for a pregnant radiographer?

The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) 2007 recommendations include a limit of radiation exposure to a member of the general public of 100 mrem/year (1 mSv/year) and a limit for the fetus of an occupationally exposed individual of 100 mrem (1 mSv) for a declared pregnant worker during the …

How many hours should a pregnant woman work on her feet?

A pregnant woman should avoid standing more than four or five hours at a time without frequent breaks to rest, says Michigan-based OB-GYN Donna Harrison.

How much radiation is safe pregnancy?

United States Nuclear Regulation Commission (USNRC) also recommends total fetus exposure during pregnancy to be less than 5.0 mSv (500 mrem). The fetus radiation dose below 50 mGy is considered safe and not cause any harm.

What is the 28 day rule in radiography?

If pregnancy cannot be excluded the 28 day rule applies The vast majority of routine diagnostic examinations fall into the category of a low dose procedure. If pregnancy cannot be excluded but the menstrual period is not overdue according to the 28 day rule proceed with the examination.

How can I keep my pregnant employee from radiation?

Pregnant employees should wear lead aprons whenever administering X-rays. Lead aprons provide a barrier of protection for the unborn child, should there be any accidental exposure — and it will also help employees feel safer.

When should I stop working when pregnant?

about 32 to 34 weeks
Most women can physically handle their usual workload up until about 32 to 34 weeks of pregnancy. Around this same time, many women are also shifting their mental focus from their job towards being a new mother, and that can affect the decision on when to stop working.

Is it OK to work hard while pregnant?

Most people can continue working during pregnancy. Being pregnant, however, might present challenges in the workplace. To stay healthy and productive on the job, you need to understand how to relieve common pregnancy discomforts — and know when a work task might jeopardize the pregnancy.

What is the 28 day rule in radiology?

10 & 28 DAY RULES: These rules refer to the point in the Individual’s menstrual cycle when it is considered most likely that the untoward effects of radiation in pregnancy can be avoided.