The purpose of this guide is to establish a uniform protocol for the placement of radiation dosimeters on individuals throughout the Nursing department at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. The definition below lists each type of dosimeter, along with the area where it is to be worn and the significance of each reading.
Dosimeter Types
P1 - Whole Body dosimeter - The P1 dosimeter provides a measurement of the deep (DDE) and shallow (SDE) radiation dose equivalent received by the whole body. A black body icon (as shown on the left) identifies the P1 whole body dosimeter. Wear this dosimeter on the torso at waist or chest level.
State of Iowa Limits
| Type of Exposure | Annual Limit |
| Whole Body Deep Dose Equivalent (DDE) which includes: head, trunk, active blood forming organs & gonads | 5000 mrem/year total |
| Whole Body Shallow Dose Equivalent (SDE) which includes: skin | 50000 mrem/year total |
| Lens of Eye Dose Equivalent (LDE) | 15000 mrem/year total |
| Extremities | 50000 mrem/year total |
| Limit for person completing pregnancy declaration | 500 mrem/gestation period |
VAMC ALARA Limits (Quarterly)
| Area of Body | ALARA Action Level I | ALARA Action Level II |
| Whole Body Deep Dose Equivalent (DDE) | 125-374 mrem | > 374 mrem |
| Whole Body Shallow Dose Equivalent (SDE) | 1250-3749 mrem | > 3749 mrem |
| Lens of Eye Dose Equivalent (LDE) | 375-1124 mrem | > 1124 mrem |
| Extremities | 1250-3749 mrem | > 3749 mrem |
PLEASE NOTE: Wearing your dosimeters in accordance with the guidelines given above is required in order to obtain an accurate assessment of your radiation dose. When not in use, store your dosimeters in an area that will not be exposed to radiation in excess of background levels.
IN ADDITION: Nursing personnel required to wear lead aprons during fluoroscopy/x-ray procedures are to wear the P1 whole body dosimeter under the lead apron at waist or chest level. Please contact Environmental Health & Safety at 335-8501 with any questions.