Everyone is exposed to natural background radiation, workers may also be exposed to ionizing radiation in workplaces with radiation sources. These sources can pose a health risk to workers if not properly controlled. Radiation can directly interact with DNA and cause damage by breaking DNA bonds or indirectly by breaking water molecules surrounding the DNA. When these water molecules break, they release free radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can harm cells and organs. It is also vulnerable when unprotected employees are in close proximity to an operating machine.
The Radiation Safety in Healthcare course is intended to teach Healthcare Providers (HCP) how to reduce risks in the healthcare setting.
Employers should assess ergonomic stressors in the radiology department and identify and address ways to reduce stressors.
What You’ll Learn
- About ergonomics hazards during X-ray
- About bloodborne pathogens and workplace violence
- Get knowledge for slip/trips and falls and prevention
Details
Course length: 30 minutes; CEU: 0.5.
Languages: American English
Key features: Audio narration, learning activity, and post-assessment
ACCME Accreditation
American Medical Compliance is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education to physicians. Our Continuing Medical Education (CME) program is committed to enhancing the knowledge, skills, and professional performance of healthcare providers to improve patient care outcomes. Through high-quality educational activities, we aim to address the identified educational gaps and to support the continuous professional development of our medical community. American Medical Compliance designates this activity for a maximum of 0.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Physicians should only claim this credit for their complete participation in this activity.
Get Certified
American Medical Compliance (AMC) is a leader in the industry for compliance, Billing, and HR solutions. To become certified, please visit us at American Medical Compliance (AMC).
Reach out for other courses by visiting the AMC Course Library.
What are X-Rays?
X-rays, also known as radiographs, are a type of electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate various materials, including the human body. They were discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895. Moreover, they have since become an important tool in medical imaging and other fields.
X-rays are produced by directing high-energy electrons at a metal target, typically tungsten. When the electrons strike the target, they transfer their energy to the atoms in the metal, causing the emission of X-rays. These X-rays form a beam that can pass through the body and create an image on a photographic film or digital detector.
Purpose of X-Rays
In medical imaging, X-rays are commonly used to visualize the internal structures of the body, such as bones and some soft tissues. The X-ray beam is absorbed differently by different tissues, resulting in varying degrees of exposure on the film or detector. Dense structures like bones appear white on the X-ray image. This is because they absorb more X-rays, while softer tissues appear in shades of gray.
Radiographs are widely used for diagnosing a range of conditions, such as fractures, infections, and tumors. They are relatively quick and simple to perform. Finally, the images can provide valuable information to healthcare professionals.
Risks of X-Rays
However, it’s important to note that X-rays involve exposure to ionizing radiation. This can potentially be harmful in high doses or with frequent exposure. To minimize risks, medical professionals follow strict guidelines to ensure that the benefits of obtaining X-ray images outweigh the potential risks. This is especially important for pregnant women and children. Additionally, alternative imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are sometimes preferred when possible due to their non-ionizing nature.
Radiation
Radiography, which involves the use of radiation in medical settings, carries specific risks and considerations that are important to understand.
Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to educate patients about the benefits, risks, and alternatives to X-ray imaging. Informed consent allows patients to make well-informed decisions about their care, weighing the potential benefits of X-rays against the minimal risks of radiation exposure.
By following best practices, healthcare professionals strive to minimize radiation risks while providing accurate and effective diagnostic imaging for optimal care.
Benefits of an Online Radiation Safety in Healthcare Course
Online courses offer numerous benefits that make them a popular choice for learning in today’s digital age. Firstly, flexibility is a key advantage. This is because online courses allow learners to access course materials and participate in lessons at their own pace and on their own schedule. Additionally, online courses provide a wide range of subjects and disciplines. This gives learners the opportunity to acquire new skills from the comfort of their own homes. Lastly, the affordability of online courses compared to traditional in-person education is a significant advantage. Online courses make quality education more accessible and affordable for many individuals. With the ability to access course materials anytime, anywhere, online courses offer a flexible, diverse, interactive, and cost-effective approach to continuing education.
