This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding radiation protection in hospitals performing cardiac catheterization procedures involving real-time x-ray imaging. Under the new provisions, hospitals would be prohibited 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. Additionally, if health professionals choose not to wear a lead apron while working primarily in the designated safety zone of the radiation protection system, they must wear a real-time dosimeter to monitor their radiation exposure. The bill also clarifies that health professionals are not prohibited from voluntarily wearing lead aprons during such procedures.

Furthermore, the bill introduces definitions for "designated safety zone" and "radiation protection system," specifying the criteria for these terms. It allows the Department of Health Services to adopt necessary rules for implementing the act through an expedited rulemaking process. The existing language that requires lead aprons in certain situations is modified to reflect these new guidelines, ensuring that health professionals are adequately protected while also allowing for flexibility based on the safety measures in place.

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