Section VIII. PORTABLE RADIOGRAPHY
4-43. INTRODUCTION
At times, it is necessary to perform radiographic examinations outside the
radiology department. One common site for these examinations is in the patient's room
on the ward (sometimes called nursing unit). He may be seriously ill, in isolation, in
traction, or incapacitated in some other way that prevents him from coming to the
department. Another place where portable equipment procedures are frequently
accomplished is in the surgical suite. In this case, the examinations are performed in
conjunction with surgical procedures. Two examples of this mechanical fixation are
4-44. PORTABLE X-RAY MACHINES
a. Portable x-rays units vary considerably from hospital to hospital. They differ
in tube capacity, rectification, design, and so forth; therefore, this section will not attempt
to describe any particular portable units. The x-ray specialist should become familiar
with the unit in his department by studying the manufacturer's operational instructions.
A portable x-ray machines are shown in figures 4-17 and 4-18.
b. Ensure all radiographic equipment use spark proof plugs to prevent
explosions or fires. This safety precaution cannot be overemphasized because of the
hazard that exists with flammable or explosive gases used in hospitals. Even a tiny
spark is enough to cause an explosion that would be dangerous for the patient and
operating room personnel. If there is any doubt as the reliability in this regard of the
equipment to be used, discuss the situation with the anesthetist and the medical
equipment repairmen. Do not assume the equipment is safe just because it has been
used without incidence in the past.
than the conventional exposure room in the radiology department. This hazard is
greater because portable examinations are usually conducted in areas that have no
protective barriers. For this reason, exposure to the x-ray specialist will be increased
somewhat over exposures received in the department. The x-ray specialist can,
however, keep exposure down to a minimum for himself, the patient, and others who
are in the area by following a few simple rules. Most of these measures are not limited
to portable equipment radiography, but should be practiced in the radiology department
as well.
MD0959
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