Physician assistants (PAs) play a vital role in healthcare delivery. However, their work conducting exams and procedures exposes them to ionizing radiation. The cumulative radiation dose from scattered X-rays or fluoroscopy poses long-term health risks. Facilities must implement comprehensive protocols to maximize physician assistant safety.
Here are three key strategies to reduce occupational radiation exposure for PAs through safety-focused equipment, policies, and training.
Optimize shielding and dosimeters.
Proper shielding barriers and protective equipment should be mandated in all care areas where radiation is used. Lead aprons, thyroid shields, and glasses help block external radiation during portable X-rays, CT scans, fluoroscopy, and interventional radiology procedures.
Installing shielded walls and glass, lead-lined doors, and protective patient drapes enhances room shielding. Protocols must ensure shields are worn and positioned correctly.
Dosimeter badges that measure radiation doses should be standard for every PA. Regular badge monitoring coupled with timely readings identifies excessive exposures needing evaluation.
Promote the principles of time, distance, and shielding.
Safety training must drill the fundamentals of minimizing time in the radiation field, maximizing distance from the radiation source, and using shielding.
PAs should step out of range when not directly assisting. Only necessary staff should be present during radiation use: proper room layout and equipment positioning foster distance. Reminders promote shielding use and periodic time checks.
Implement exposure reduction features.
New equipment advances help reduce radiation levels. Pulsed fluoroscopy emits lower radiation doses by stopping X-ray output between image captures. Flat-panel detectors are more sensitive than older image intensifiers.
Other features, like beam collimation, dose tracking, and lower frame rates for fluoro loops, decrease exposure. Purchasing policies should require dose-reduction capabilities.
An integrated approach is key for sustained improvements in physician assistant safety. By embedding radiation protection into equipment design, protocols, layout, training, and monitoring, facilities safeguard patients and staff.
A safety culture empowers PAs to take ownership of their radiation protection without impacting care. Contact us today to evaluate your radiation safety program and explore solutions to reduce risks. Reach out to Sharp Fluidics today and experience the future of surgical precision.