Radiation protection of female patients of reproductive capacity: A survey of policy and practice in Norway.

• 发表时间: Feb 2007
• 来源期刊: Radiography (Lond)
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2005.10.003
• PMID: 33383599
• 文章类型: Journal Article
• 作者列表: Krovak B,Nightingale J

关键词: 10-Day rule; 28-Day rule; Female patient of reproductive capacity; Foetal irradiation; Pregnancy status; Radiation protection

Abstract

The implementation of various policies related to female patients of reproductive capacity was investigated using a structured telephone interview of radiological departments in Norway. The findings suggest that 60% (n=35/58) of radiological departments have written guidelines regarding female patients of reproductive capacity. The 10-day rule is implemented for a range of examinations in 12% (n=7/58) of the radiological departments questioned, and in another 9% (n=5/58) it is only implemented for hysterosalpingography. Forty percent (n=23/58) of departments are familiar with rapid urine pregnancy tests and use them in certain circumstances. In conclusion, a lack of standardisation of approaches to radiation protection is apparent, and this raises concerns as national and international recommendations are not being correctly implemented. This may lead to confusion amongst patients and staff, and may have adverse consequences such as the accidental irradiation of the unborn child.