What is the recommended procedure for managing the risk of scatter radiation?

The recommended procedure for managing the risk of scatter radiation emphasizes keeping the radiation source as far away as possible. This is based on the principles of radiation safety and the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation diminishes with distance from the source. By maximizing the distance between the radiation source and the person at risk (such as healthcare workers), the potential exposure to scatter radiation is significantly reduced.

While other practices can help in managing scatter radiation—such as using lead shielding and minimizing patient movement—maintaining a greater distance from the radiation source is the most effective way to reduce exposure. This strategy directly decreases the amount of radiation that reaches individuals, thereby enhancing their safety in a clinical environment.

Utilizing full lead shielding can provide a barrier to reduce scatter radiation, but it does not substitute for the advantage gained by increasing distance from the source. Similarly, minimizing patient movement is important for image quality and safety, but it does not directly address the scatter radiation problem. This reinforces the significance of distance as a primary method for radiation protection.