What precautions should patients and technicians take during bone density procedures?

In bone density procedures, wearing lead protection is crucial to ensure the safety of both the patient and the technician. These procedures often involve X-ray technology, where radiation exposure, even at low levels, can be a concern. Lead aprons and thyroid collars are designed to absorb the radiation and protect sensitive organs from unnecessary exposure. This is especially important given the cumulative nature of radiation exposure over time, which can heighten the risk of potential side effects.

While cotton clothing and non-metallic equipment can contribute to comfort and overall safety, they do not directly address the issue of radiation exposure. Removing all jewelry is advisable to reduce artifact interference during imaging, but it does not provide protective benefits against radiation. Hence, the focus on lead protection as the primary precaution underscores the importance of minimizing radiation risk in the clinical setting.