Investigating Reduced Use of Shielding in Radiologic Imaging

PURPOSE: To investigate if there has been an elimination of gonadal and fetal shielding during routine abdominal and pelvic imaging compared with other radiologic examination types such as torso or extremity examinations. METHODS: This original, mixed-methods, pilot research study used an anonymous 22-question survey to collect data. Respondents drawn from social media groups, cold calls, and current colleagues of the author were asked to complete the survey during a 31-day period. Questions were focused on the responding technologists' demographics and when they shield patients based on examination type, age, and sex. RESULTS: Of the 38 survey respondents, 36 stated they would not shield during pelvis imaging; 15 stated they would not shield during torso imaging; 31 stated they would not shield during lumbar imaging; and 10 stated they would not shield during extremity imaging. The survey results also showed that patients' age, sex, and risk of covering anatomy have a vital role in current shielding practices. However, 25 respondents stated that their employer does not have a different shielding protocol for male and female patients. Of the respondents, 89% reported having a rolling lap shield available for use during upright imaging studies. Findings showed that many technologists do not shield during various examinations. DISCUSSION: This study provides a starting point for future research and acknowledges a shift in shielding practices. The findings of this study can be used by administrators and other professionals when examining their current shielding protocols. CONCLUSION: The results from this pilot survey show that, in addition to patient radiation dose, other important factors, such as examination type and patient age, influence a technologist's decision to shield.