Ionising radiation in urology: consideration of individuals of childbearing age (original) (raw)

Journal of Prescribing Practice

Abstract

Nurse referrers of medical ionising radiation (X-ray) are educated to refer appropriately. One particular cohort of patients who warrant special consideration regarding the risks associated with X-ray are individuals of childbearing age. In the context of advanced nurse practitioner practice in urology, these patients attend for removal of ureteric stents and may require an abdominal X-ray. In reaching a decision, ANPs undertake a systematic assessment considering the individual's pregnancy status, as an X-ray of the abdomen, although low dose, carries a much higher risk of teratogenic effects than an X-ray of the extremities. This article considers the risks of ionising radiation in individuals of childbearing age, while paying attention to legislation and the application of the principles of justification, optimisation and dose limitation.

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