Whether shielding of patients is necessary came into question based on a position statement in 2019 by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine that recommended discontinuing the practice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration then rescinded its longstanding gonadal shielding recommendation.
Moreover, in 2020, the British Institute of Radiology published guidance on using shielding on patients for diagnostic radiology applications. And in 2021, recommendations from the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements supported an end to shielding specifically during abdominal and pelvic radiography.
While the debate continues, the idea of stopping a practice that is so ingrained may leave many radiographers feeling confused, said course moderator Susie Moseley, an education and curriculum coordinator for the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
"This session will discuss the latest guidance on using shielding, explain the pros and cons, and most importantly, identify resources to help practitioners understand and communicate the change to their patients," she noted.
