From the Guidelines
Healthcare staff handling DSMA scans should prioritize radiation safety by following protocols such as wearing personal dosimeters, using lead shields, and maintaining distance from the radioactive source, as outlined in the American College of Cardiology guidelines 1. When handling DSMA scans, staff should take precautions to minimize radiation exposure, including:
- Wearing gloves when handling the radiopharmaceutical
- Properly disposing of materials in designated radioactive waste containers
- Avoiding direct handling of radiopharmaceuticals for pregnant staff
- Ensuring patient preparation, such as proper hydration and voiding before imaging
- Using lead shields and maintaining distance from the radioactive source when possible These precautions are necessary because DSMA is labeled with Technetium-99m, which emits gamma radiation that can pose health risks with repeated or significant exposure, though the relatively short half-life (6 hours) helps minimize prolonged exposure risks. Key recommendations for reducing radiation exposure in the nuclear cardiology laboratory include:
- Observing patients from behind a transparent, leaded shield of 5-mm lead-equivalent material
- Providing a separate waiting room for patients who have received an injection
- Maintaining adequate distance from the patient (at least 1 meter)
- Limiting duration and frequency of visits to the hot laboratory
- Working as rapidly and carefully as possible with radioisotopes
- Assessing and examining patients before injection of radioactive materials These guidelines are supported by the American College of Cardiology expert consensus document on radiation safety in the practice of cardiology 1.
From the Research
General Precautions for DSMA Scan and Staff Safety with Handling
- The use of lead aprons is essential for medical workers to reduce radiation exposure during radiography and surgery 2.
- Regular inspection and maintenance of lead aprons are crucial to ensure their effectiveness in protecting against radiation 2.
- Visual and tactile inspections may not be sufficient to detect damage to internal radiation shields, and fluoroscopy or CT scans may be necessary to evaluate the extent of damage 2.
- Non-lead aprons can be an effective alternative to lead aprons, offering similar radiation protection while being lighter and non-toxic 3.
- Staff handling DSMA scans should wear lead aprons, thyroid shields, and radiation-monitoring badges to minimize radiation exposure 4.
Staff Safety Measures
- Education and training on radiation protection and safety are essential for staff handling DSMA scans 4.
- Proper use and maintenance of protective equipment, such as lead aprons and thyroid shields, are critical to ensuring staff safety 2, 4.
- Regular monitoring of radiation exposure through badges or other means can help identify potential risks and prevent overexposure 4.
Handling of Contrast Agents
- Contrast agents used in DSMA scans can have undesirable side effects, and staff should be aware of these risks 5.
- Newer contrast agents with lower tonicity and reduced calcium binding may offer improved safety profiles 5.
- Intra-arterial lidocaine can be an effective analgesic for reducing pain associated with peripheral angiography 6.