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Pet/Ct Safety Training

Positron Emission Tomography and Computerized Tomography are nuclear medicine imaging tools used in cancer detection. PET and CT scans are beneficial, often administered simultaneously, and not without safety guidelines.

  1. Radiation Safety and Protection

    • Positron Emission Tomography requires more substantial shielding than general nuclear medicine. A standard shipping container for one unit dose of PET radiopharmaceuticals can weigh up to 70 pounds. This significant weight, plus the heavy and thick shielding material, increases the chance of injury to the technologist while transporting containers. Thorough safety training includes dose-limiting regulations for individuals who are occupationally and non-occupationally exposed to radiation, precautions for patients, transport safety and radiation dosage measurement.

    Control of Radiopharmaceuticals

    • Syringes, gloves and other specific devices designed for radioactive materials used in PET/CT help reduce the risk for radiation exposure. Tungsten shielding, leaded glass shielding and lead containers used while handling radioactive materials protect technologists. Safety trainers discuss radionuclide accountability, management of contaminated individuals and proper shielding techniques.

    Disposal of Radioactive Materials

    • Waste, including papers, rags, tools and clothing, containing even minute amounts of short-lived radioactivity must undergo decay storage before being permanently disposed of. Once radiography sources have decayed enough to no longer emit penetrating radiation, they are considered radioactive waste. Safety training covers proper decontamination techniques and methods, as well as radioactive waste monitoring.

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