DEXA Radiation Safety & Patient Preparation

Question 1

What is ALARA in radiation safety?

Accepted Answer

As Low As Reasonably Achievable

Answer

ALARA stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable" and is a fundamental principle in radiation safety. It mandates that all radiation exposure should be kept to the absolute minimum necessary, taking into account economic and social factors. This principle guides practices in DEXA scanning to minimize patient and staff exposure while still achieving diagnostic quality images.

Question 2

What should patients remove before a DEXA scan?

Accepted Answer

All metal objects

Answer

Patients should remove all metal objects, such as jewelry, zippers, buttons, and buckles, before a DEXA scan. Metal objects can create artifacts on the scan image by attenuating the X-ray beam, leading to inaccurate bone mineral density measurements. Removing them ensures a clear image and reliable results.

Question 3

Which patients need extra precaution during a scan?

Accepted Answer

Pregnant patients

Answer

Pregnant patients require extra precaution during any procedure involving radiation, including DEXA scans. Although DEXA uses a very low dose of radiation, there is still a potential risk to the developing fetus. Therefore, pregnancy should always be screened for, and the scan should typically be postponed or performed only if absolutely medically necessary and with appropriate shielding after consultation with a radiologist.

Question 4

What is a potential side effect of radiation exposure?

Accepted Answer

Increased cancer risk

Answer

While DEXA scans use a very low dose of radiation, any exposure to ionizing radiation carries a small, cumulative risk of cellular damage that can potentially lead to an increased risk of cancer over a lifetime. This is why radiation safety principles like ALARA are strictly followed to minimize exposure for both patients and staff.

Question 5

Which shielding device is used in radiation safety?

Accepted Answer

Lead apron

Answer

A lead apron is a common shielding device used in radiation safety to protect sensitive body parts from unnecessary radiation exposure. Lead is highly effective at absorbing X-rays. While not typically worn by patients during a DEXA scan due to the very low dose and specific beam geometry, lead shielding may be used for staff or in specific situations to protect areas not being scanned.

(DEXA) DEXA Bone Density Scan Certification Practice Test

(DEXA) DEXA Bone Density Scan Certification Practice Test

DEXA Radiation Safety & Patient Preparation