The U.S. National Quality Forum (NQF) has added the Image Gently recommendations for reducing pediatric radiation dose to its update of safe practices for healthcare systems.
The Washington, DC, nonprofit organization this month issued its "Safe Practices for Better Healthcare -- 2009 Update," in which the group endorses 34 safe practices to guide healthcare systems in providing care that is culturally appropriate and patient-centered.
For the first time, the report endorses the Image Gently campaign recommendations of the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging. Image Gently is an international campaign to educate healthcare professionals and parents about the importance of using appropriate radiation dose for pediatric patients when performing CT exams.
The safe practice for pediatric imaging states that when CT imaging studies are undertaken on children, "child-sized" techniques should be used to reduce unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation.
The report further recommends the following:
- CT scans should be performed only when necessary.
- Evidence-based, "child-sized" protocols should be utilized and optimized for each type of CT scanner, based on guidelines published on the Image Gently Web site.
- Only the indicated, required area should be scanned, and shielding should be used based on local and national standards of practice.
- Single-phase scans should be used, and multiphase protocols should be removed from routine practice.
- CT technologists should be made familiar with CT techniques for both adults and children.
- Performance improvement programs should be initiated regarding CT dose-reduction strategies and pediatric-specific safety considerations.
- Family members should be educated about pediatric imaging risks and benefits and requesting the imaging study results within an appropriate time frame.
The new report may be ordered at www.qualityforum.org.
Related Reading
California hospital fined $25,000 for pediatric CT radiation overdose, March 24, 2009
CT often unjustified in the young; German pediatricians lack dose awareness, March 10, 2009
Finnish study finds unnecessary pediatric CT exams, February 20, 2009
Image Gently organizers look ahead on one-year anniversary: Part 1, February 9, 2009
Image Gently campaign targets parents for 2009 initiative, February 3, 2009
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