What should be done to ensure patient safety during radiation procedures?

Using proper shielding is essential to ensuring patient safety during radiation procedures. Shielding minimizes the patient's exposure to unnecessary radiation by placing protective barriers between the patient and the radiation source. This can involve the use of lead aprons, barriers, or specialized equipment designed to absorb or deflect radiation. Effective shielding not only protects the patient but also helps safeguard healthcare providers and others in the vicinity from potential radiation exposure.

Incorporating proper shielding practices is standard in various imaging modalities, including X-rays and CT scans, as it helps maintain compliance with safety regulations and guidelines established by health organizations. This approach is a key component of the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), which aims to manage and reduce radiation risks in medical settings.