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Mobile X-ray Unit
Operation
A-2
Positioning the pediatric patient:
Pediatric patients are not as likely as adults to understand the need to remain
still during the procedure. Therefore, it makes sense to provide aids to
maintaining stable positioning. It is strongly recommended the use of
immobilizing devices such as bean bags and restraint systems (foam
wedges, adhesive tapes, etc.) to avoid the need of repeating exposures due to
the movement of the pediatric patients. Whenever possible use techniques
based on the lowest exposure times.
Shielding:
We recommend you provide extra shielding of radiosensitive organs or
tissues such as eyes, gonads and thyroid glands. Applying a correct
collimation will help to protect the patient against excessive radiation as well.
Please review the following scientific literature regarding pediatric radio
sensitivity: GROSSMAN, Herman. "Radiation Protection in Diagnostic
Radiography of Children". Pediatric Radiology, Vol. 51, (No. 1): 141- -144,
January, 1973: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/reprint/51/1/141.
Technique factors:
You should take steps to reduce technique factors to the lowest possible levels
consistent with good image acquisition.
For example, if your adult abdomen settings are: 70--85 kVp, 200--400 mA,
15--80 mAs, consider starting at 65--75 kVp, 100--160 mA, 2.5--10 mAs for a
pediatric patient. Whenever possible use high kVp techniques and large SID
(Source Image Distance).
Summary:
Image only when there is a clear medical benefit.
Image only the indicated area.
Use the lowest amount of radiation for adequate imaging based on size
of the child (reducing tube output -- kVp and mAs).
Try to use always short exposure times, large SID values and
immobilizing devices.
Avoid multiple scans and use alternative diagnostic studies (such as
ultrasound or MRI) when possible.
Appendix A
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