Radiation Safety Protocols for Fluoroscopy: Radiation Protection for Patients and Staff 2026 (CE ARRT)

X-rays have revolutionized medicine and enabled us to diagnose and help patients that would not have been possible without them. X-rays can cause acute harm, cancer and birth defects if not administered correctly and that is why practitioners must understand and manage patient dose and scattered radiation to insure overall safety. In this sixth episode of the 8-episode series Radiation Safety Protocols for Fluoroscopy we will talk about staff and patient radiation focusing primarily on scattered radiation that is not being used for diagnostic purposes and the precautions can be taken to protect everyone present in the room.

• Very Brief Review of PE & Compton Interactions
• Physical Quantities & how they are measured
• Biological Quantities & how they are estimated
• Where you will see these units, and why you should care

• Identify the annual limit for occupationally exposed individuals
• Determine typical exposure rate 1m from a patient undergoing a fluoroscopy procedure
• Understand how to use the inverse square law
• Utilize and orient a mobile c-arm to minimize radiation dose to personnel
• Know the proper way to wear and store dosimetry badges

This course is designed for physicians and healthcare professionals performing fluoroscopically guided procedures in the cardiac and interventional suite. It is designed to enhance understanding of radiation as a tool that must be managed to protect staff and patients in the use of fluoroscopic equipment. You will learn the biological effects of x-ray radiation and principles of radiation protection. You will improve your understanding of operation and principles of fluoroscopic equipment including exposure (air kerma) outputs, high level control options, dose reduction techniques and procedures for recording data.

Additionally, this program is designed as part of an 8-episode series to bring healthcare professionals who use radiology in healthcare practice up to date with the latest standards of care, including Texas Administrative Code §289.227.