American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) Practice Exam

What type of shield is commonly used to protect the reproductive organs during X-ray procedures?

1. Lead apron

2. Collimation

3. Secondary shielding

4. Metal shield

The correct answer is: Lead apron

A lead apron is commonly used to protect the reproductive organs during X-ray procedures because it is made from a material that effectively absorbs and attenuates ionizing radiation. The primary purpose of using a lead apron is to minimize the radiation exposure to sensitive areas of the body, such as the gonads, which are highly susceptible to the harmful effects of radiation. Lead is a dense material that provides significant protection by blocking the X-rays from reaching the body. The other options provided do not serve the same purpose directly. Collimation, for example, refers to the process of restricting the size and shape of the X-ray beam, which helps to limit unnecessary exposure to surrounding tissues but does not itself provide a barrier. Secondary shielding involves additional barriers that could be placed around the X-ray area but is less commonly used in a clinical setting specifically for reproductive protection during individual X-ray exams. Metal shields could refer to any reflective or absorptive material but are not specifically designed or used as standard practice to protect the reproductive organs in the context of X-ray procedures.