Practice Matters
Ionizing Radiation and Medical Imaging: What Midlevel Providers Need to Know
Marcia Patterson, MSN, RN, NP-C
From Boulder Community Hospital, Boulder, Colorado
The author has no conflicts of interest to disclose.
Correspondence to: Marcia Patterson, MSN, RN, NP-C. E-mail: mpattersonnpc@hotmail.com
J Adv Pract Oncol 2011;2:185–189 |
DOI: 10.6004/jadpro.2011.2.3.5 |
© 2011 Harborside Press®
ABSTRACT
Medical imaging relies heavily on the use of ionizing radiation, which is a known carcinogen. Its increasing use, particularly through CT scans, has come under scrutiny due to safety concerns over cumulative radiation exposure. Midlevel providers may find themselves in a quandary, as they rely on the latest technology for evaluating clinical issues yet are bound to safe practice methodologies. This article provides the foundational information necessary for understanding the use of ionizing radiation in clinical practice, and offers suggestions for adjusting practice without compromising effectiveness of care.
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