Radiation Health & SafetyQuestion 3 of 100
A patient is seated for a full-mouth series. Which combination best protects the patient's most radiosensitive tissues during the exposures?
a.A lead apron placed over the patient's lap only
b.A thyroid collar alone, because the trunk is outside the beam
c.Nothing is required if a digital sensor is used
d.A lead apron covering the trunk together with a thyroid collar
Explanation
A lead apron over the trunk plus a thyroid collar gives the broadest protection, because the thyroid gland and the bone marrow and gonads of the trunk are highly radiosensitive. A lap-only apron leaves the chest and thyroid unshielded, and a collar alone leaves the trunk unshielded. Digital sensors lower dose but do not eliminate the need for patient shielding where it is recommended.
Law Reference: FDA/ADA Dental Radiographic Examinations: Recommendations for Patient Selection and Limiting Radiation ExposurePractice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
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