Which precaution most directly reduces fetal dose during radiography when pregnancy is known?

Which precaution most directly reduces fetal dose during radiography when pregnancy is known?

• A. Increasing exposure factors to reduce exposure time
• B. Removing shielding to avoid interference
• C. Using higher kVp to deliver more energy
• D. Lead shielding over the abdomen during radiography

Answer: (D)

Lead shielding over the abdomen is the most direct way to reduce fetal dose. It acts as a barrier that attenuates x-ray photons, especially the scatter that can reach the fetus from the patient, thereby lowering the amount of radiation the fetus receives. Other adjustments to technique may change image quality or overall dose but do not physically block the fetus from exposure, and removing shielding would raise fetal exposure.

Lead shielding over the abdomen is the most direct way to reduce fetal dose. It acts as a barrier that attenuates x-ray photons, especially the scatter that can reach the fetus from the patient, thereby lowering the amount of radiation the fetus receives. Other adjustments to technique may change image quality or overall dose but do not physically block the fetus from exposure, and removing shielding would raise fetal exposure.