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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P AT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
Fluoroscopy alarms on C-arm units typically
sound after ________ of uninterrupted use.
a.
2 minutes
c.
7 minutes
b.
5 minutes
d.
10 minutes
Answer:
b
Physicians, while focusing on the procedure at hand, might forget they've acti-
vated the X-ray and keep it working long past when it's needed. Have them
image only when necessary, and for only as long as it takes to capture usable
pictures. That sounds like basic advice, and it is, but it's not always followed.
Newer C-arms save and freeze the last image captured when the X-ray is deacti-
vated. Working off of those pictures instead of relying on live fluoroscopy limits
C-arm use and, in turn, reduces exposure risk.
When not actively involved in the procedure, you
should stand at least ______ away from the X-ray field.
a.
6 feet
c.
10 feet
b
. 8 feet
d.
12 feet
Answer:
a
You're at risk of exposure from the radiation that bounces off patients, so stand
away from the field whenever you're not needed during a procedure. That said,
risks are not completely eliminated outside the supposed 6-foot safety zone, so
you must always wear proper personal protection. We installed a stand-up
shield in rooms where imaging procedures are performed. The shield doesn't
preclude the need for personal protection, but it's an added safeguard for per-
sonnel who aren't actively involved in cases. Stand near the C-arm's image inten-
sifier, where radiation levels are lower than near the X-ray tube. When you stand
C - A R M S A F E T Y
