CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

When should gonadal shielding be utilized?

1. When the patient is over 40 years of age

2. When the examination doesn't compromise clinical objectives

3. When the reproductive organs are never in the beam

4. Only for male patients

The correct answer is: When the examination doesn't compromise clinical objectives

Utilizing gonadal shielding is an important practice in radiography to minimize radiation exposure to the reproductive organs, thereby reducing the risk of radiation-induced genetic effects. The correct answer emphasizes that shielding should be applied when it does not compromise the clinical objectives of the examination. This means that if the use of shielding can be safely implemented without hindering the quality or the diagnostic value of the radiographic exam, it should definitely be employed. For example, if the area of interest is located in a way that the reproductive organs are not directly in the primary beam and shielding can be used effectively, it is both logical and necessary. The other options present scenarios that do not align with the best practices of radiography. For instance, patient age alone does not dictate the need for shielding, as individuals under or over 40 years of age can still be at risk for radiation exposure. Shielding is not necessary if the reproductive organs are not in the path of the beam, making such a choice irrelevant. Lastly, the idea that shielding is only for male patients disregards the need for protection of female patients as well, as the ovaries are equally susceptible to radiation. It is essential to consider all patients when implementing protective measures, reinforcing that the principle of minimizing exposure