What PPE is routinely used in the radiography department and why?

Prepare for the Diagnostic Radiography Interview. Practice with tailored questions and insightful explanations to boost confidence and succeed in your radiography exam!

In radiography, protection comes from both shielding against ionizing radiation and infection control procedures. Lead aprons and thyroid shields reduce scatter radiation reaching the body, with the thyroid being a particularly radiosensitive organ, so shielding the torso and neck is a key protective measure during many procedures. At the same time, gloves, gowns, and masks are used when there’s a risk of contamination or when infection control policies require them, helping to prevent cross‑infection between patient and staff. This combination reflects the twofold goal of routine PPE: minimize radiation dose with shielding and maintain asepsis with appropriate infection control gear. The other options miss one or both aspects—their emphasis on only one type of protection or on no PPE at all—so they don’t align with standard practice.