Kubtec: NICU Staff Exposed to Inordinate Amounts of Radiation

A study undertaken by the Royal University Hospital in Saskatchewan, Canada found that almost 50% of the images taken in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) showed adult fingers in the image and that many nurses were unaware of this accidental exposure to radiation.

Milford, CT, May 08, 2016 --(PR.com)-- A study undertaken by the Royal University Hospital in Saskatchewan, Canada found that almost 50% of the images taken in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) showed adult fingers in the image and that many nurses were unaware of this accidental exposure to radiation.

Although cancer risks associated with radiation have been shown to be higher for childhood and adolescent exposure than adult exposure, most scientists believe that “the effects of radiation are cumulative.”

The World Health Organization has stated that “while every day applications of X-rays for medical imaging help millions of patients worldwide, inappropriate use may result in unnecessary and preventable radiation risks.”

The health risks of radiation exposure for NICU staff can be acute – erythema, dermatitis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness or death – or chronic – skin cancer, bone marrow suppression or congenital defects in offspring.

Though most hospitals have established protocols to minimize radiation exposure, accidental contact often goes unnoticed. The Royal University study found that images are frequently cropped prior to be sent to PACS, “which can conceal a significant source of occupational radiation exposure.”

New technology, however, can reduce exposure risk. The KUB® 250 Neonatal Imaging System by Kubtec® is equipped with a detector that slides into the incubator without having to move or hold the infant. Additionally, it uses CMOS technology to produce the highest resolution images in seconds at half the radiation levels of standard hospital X-ray systems.

The KUB® 250 System, designed specifically for the NICU, reduces radiation levels for premature newborns, who are often exposed to more radiation in their first few weeks of life than most adults endure in their lifetime.

This groundbreaking imaging system is yet another example of the Kubtec® commitment to improving the quality of care for patients and workplace efficiency and safety for caregivers.

About Kubtec®

Kubtec, a registered trademark of KUB Technologies, Inc., develops and manufactures digital X-ray systems for clinical and non-clinical applications, including low-dose neonatal imaging, specimen radiography, scientific research, forensic analysis, non-destructive testing, irradiation and more. Kubtec is ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified and complies with U.S., Canadian, and European requirements for radiation safety. Systems and manufacturer-trained support is available worldwide.

For more information, please contact:

Mark A. Lugris
PR & Communications Manager
mlugris@kubtec.com
Tel: +1 203.364.8544
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