When explaining the X-ray procedure to a family, it is important to first understand that they are concerned for the well being of their family member. At the end of the day, they want the best for their family member and hearing that radiation is going to be used can be a little scary for them. There are ways that you can utilize to ease the stress that could be on their minds about the procedure.
First thing that you can do for the patient and their family is explain the different positions that the patient will be in. This will give the family and the patient an idea of how each image will be captured. Next, I would start by explaining that all precautions will be taken with respect to ALARA and the reduction of radiation. I would explain that a standard chest X-ray would be equivalent to ten days of background radiation. Ideally, this would help ease the family’s anxiety about the procedure. Finally, I would explain that the patient is never radioactive. There is a misconception that radiation will make someone radioactive and explaining that it would not might ease any tension about the situation. The machine produces the X-rays only when you press the button and the moment that exposure is over the machine stops producing radiation.
X-ray X-pert 