When should a dosimeter be worn during a fluoroscopy procedure?

A dosimeter should be worn on the collar outside the lead apron during a fluoroscopy procedure to effectively monitor the dose of radiation exposure to the individual wearing it. Placing the dosimeter at this location allows for an accurate assessment of the radiation dose received by the head and upper body, which are the areas most susceptible to radiation exposure during such procedures.

One of the primary purposes of a dosimeter is to capture the highest dose of radiation exposure to ensure the safety and health of the personnel involved in the procedure. By placing it at the collar level, distinct readings can be obtained that account for scatter radiation and other exposure variables while still considering the protective effects of the lead apron over the torso.

Other positions for wearing a dosimeter, such as under the lead apron at waist level, on the wrist, or on the ankle, would not provide an accurate reading of the exposure levels relevant to the areas of high risk. For instance, wearing a dosimeter on the wrist might miss significant exposure from scatter radiation and would not reflect the actual exposure experienced by the operator’s head and neck area, which is often above the apron. Thus, the collar position is strategically chosen to best reflect potential radiation exposure while ensuring maximum protection.