Survey of the Use of X-ray Beam Collimator and Shielding Tools during Infant Chest Radiography

Background: The use of shielding tools and X-ray beam collimator has extensively been advocated as effective methods to reduce radiation exposure to patients underwent radiological procedures. The aim of this study was to address the use of these protection measures during infant chest radiography. Material and Methods: 348 digital and/or analogue infant chest radiographs were reviewed that performed between October- and December 2015 at four main hospitals of Khuzestan-Iran province to assessment the beam collimation. For each radiograph the area between current and acceptable collimation was calculated. Thirty eight radiographers were deeply interviewed to investigate the actual use of shielding tools and the main reasons for not using of them. Results: Only 54 (15.5%) radiographs [33(61%) analogues and 21(39%) digital] have satisfactory collimation. The total means area of diagnostic interest (ADI) and the region outside ADI for each radiograph was estimated 171 and 86 cm^2, respectively. The irradiated region outside the ADI was significantly larger in digital than in analogue images (mean of 103 cm^2 vs. 54 cm^2; P < 0.05). Shielding tools were used regularly only by 5% of radiographers. Conclusion: The radiosensitive organs of infants located outside of ADI in hospitals investigated are at risk. Adherence to safety guideline urgently recommends.