operation theatre technique :general precautions. Asepsis in techniques. selection of exposure risks, radiation protection.

1. OPERATION THEATRE TECHNIQUE :GENERAL PRECAUTIONS.
ASEPSIS IN TECHNIQUES. SELECTION OF EXPOSURE RISKS,
RADIATION PROTECTION.
BY MS. AALIA ABDULLAH
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR RADIOLOGY AND IMAGING
MEWAR UNIVERSITY RAJASTHAN

2. • In radiology, particularly in interventional radiology
procedures, there are specific considerations for general
precautions, asepsis in techniques, selection of exposure
risks, and radiation protection

3. • General Precautions:
• Patient Identification: Verify the patient's identity
using two unique identifiers (e.g., name and date of
birth) to ensure that the correct procedure is
performed on the right patient.
• Informed Consent: Ensure that patients or their legal
guardians have provided informed consent for the
procedure, including an understanding of the
potential risks and benefits.
• Patient Monitoring: Continuously monitor the patient's
vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen
saturation) throughout the procedure.

4. • Emergency Equipment: Ensure the availability and functionality
of emergency equipment, including crash carts and
defibrillators, in case of unforeseen medical emergencies.
• Allergies and Medical History: Review the patient's medical
history and allergies to contrast agents or other medications to
prevent adverse reactions.
• Infection Control: Maintain appropriate infection control
measures, including hand hygiene, proper disinfection of
equipment and surfaces, and the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks.

6. • Asepsis in Techniques:
• Sterile Technique (for Interventional Procedures): In
interventional radiology, create and maintain a sterile
field when performing invasive procedures. This includes
sterile draping of the patient, using sterile gloves, and
maintaining sterile instruments.

7. • Selection of Exposure Risks:
• Radiation Exposure Risk Assessment: Evaluate the
potential risks associated with ionizing radiation
exposure for patients, radiology personnel, and
anyone else present in the radiology suite.
• Pregnancy and Childbearing Potential: Assess whether
female patients of childbearing age are pregnant or
potentially pregnant before performing any radiologic
procedure that involves ionizing radiation. Take
appropriate measures to minimize fetal exposure,

8. • Radiation Protection:
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Radiology staff
should wear lead aprons, thyroid shields, and leaded
gloves when exposed to ionizing radiation. Properly
fitted dosimeters should be worn to monitor radiation
exposure.
• Minimize Exposure Time: Limit the time spent in the
radiation field by using fluoroscopy and X-ray
equipment only when necessary, and keeping a safe
distance from the source during image acquisition.

10. • Collimation and Shielding: Use collimators and shields to focus
and direct the radiation beam precisely where needed while
protecting adjacent areas from unnecessary exposure.
• Image Optimization: Optimize imaging protocols to reduce
radiation dose while maintaining diagnostic image quality.

11. • Patient Shielding: Use lead aprons and shields for patients
when appropriate, especially for pediatric and pregnant
patients.
• Training: Ensure that all radiology personnel receive
appropriate training in radiation safety, including the ALARA
(As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle.

12. • Monitoring and Quality Control: Regularly monitor and
maintain radiology equipment to ensure proper
functionality and safety. Perform quality control
checks on imaging equipment to ensure accurate and
safe procedures.