The proposed bill would amend current statutes by prohibiting hospitals that perform cardiac catheterization procedures involving real-time x-ray imaging from requiring health professionals to wear lead aprons if the procedure room is equipped with a radiation protection system that is in use according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, if the hospital's radiation safety officer determines that staff exposures may approach occupational dose thresholds, they may still require the use of lead aprons or other protective equipment. Additionally, health professionals who opt not to wear a lead apron must be required to wear a real-time dosimeter to monitor their radiation exposure.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that health professionals are not prohibited from voluntarily wearing lead aprons during procedures, even when a radiation protection system is in place. It also defines "radiation protection system" as a shielding system that provides protection equal to or greater than that of a 0.25 millimeter lead-equivalent apron. These updates aim to enhance safety protocols while allowing flexibility in protective measures based on specific circumstances in the procedure room.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-420.06
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-420.06
House Engrossed Version: 36-420.06