Analysis of radiation exposures from nuclear medicine procedures with respect to background radiation

2717 Objectives Many patients are concerned about the amount of radiation received from nuclear medicine procedures without realizing they are exposed to radiation from the environment. In one year, the average person is exposed to 311 millirem (mrem) of natural background radiation. This lack of knowledge can be challenging for technologists when answering patient questions regarding radiation exposure. The purpose of this research study was to evaluate the amount of radiation from various procedures and present it in terms of naturally occurring radiation exposures. Methods Manufacturer package inserts for commonly used radiopharmaceuticals in nuclear medicine were reviewed to obtain the total body radiation absorbed dose of a 70 kilogram patient. Radiation exposure from low-dose computed tomography (CT), which is employed with Single Photon Computed Emission Tomography (SPECT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET), was also calculated. Various accredited websites were reviewed to obtain information on naturally occurring radiation obtained from our environment. The medical and natural radiation exposures were then evaluated and presented in comprehensible equivalent terms for the ease of patient understanding. Results Table 1 displays a partial list of comparative radiation exposures. Conclusions By providing a visual guide between medical and natural radiation exposures, Nuclear Medicine Technologists can help patients relate the amount of radiation obtained from a procedure to natural radiation exposures received in everyday life. Presenting exposure comparisons in easily understandable terms equips technologists to effectively address patient concerns.