The Committee on Accident Prevention has submitted the following statement:
Precautions in the Use of Fluoroscopy
General
No unnecessary examination should be made.
A history of any previous x-ray exposuresby fluoroscopy or roentgenographyshould be obtained.
Carry out at no more than 3, but preferably 2 milliamperes.
Record the durations of each examination and the site examined on the child's history.
Equipment
Filters 2-3 mm. aluminum are to be used.
The longest possible targettable top distancepreferably 18" should be used.
Calibration of output (r) of machine should be made not less than once a year unless the tube has been changed or other repairs made.
Machines should have a timing switch which cuts off automatically after 5 minutes.
The machine and controls should be of shockproof type.
Method
Accommodate before fluoroscopy (use red glasses10 minutes before entering fluoroscopy room).
Wear protective apron and gloves.
Use the minimal field compatible with the requirements of the examination.
Never increase milliampere settings to "see better."