Question

Why Is It Important Not To Expose A Patient To X-rays For Too Long?
​

Answer 1

• Exposure to very high levels of radiation, such as being close to an atomic blast, can cause acute health effects such as skin burns and acute radiation syndrome (“radiation sickness"). It can also result in long-term health effects such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Answer 2

If anyone is required to support a patient or film during x-ray exposure, he/she must wear a lead apron and lead gloves and avoid the direct beam by standing to one side and away from the x-ray tube. Use collimation on the field size or the area necessary for the particular examination.