on November 22, 2010 |
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Topics: Imaging, Service Lines, Medication Administration, Quality, Performance Improvement
In response to a recent member request pertaining to guidelines and consent considerations for radiation exposure of pregnant patients, we compiled a summary of resources to help guide thinking in this area. There are numerous studies discussing the effects of radiation on fetal maturation, many of which suggest that the low levels of radiation inherent in most radiographic procedures pose little threat to the developing fetus (<5 rad). Concern over radiation exposure only begins to become apparent once exposure reaches >5 rad, where rates of cancer risk or disease increase slightly. The ACR and CDC compare dose with stage in fetal development to provide further insight into possible effects of radiation at certain stages of maturation.
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Pregnancy and Radiation Dose Considerations
