What are the key ICRP recommendations for pediatric radiological protection?
The ICRP emphasizes three fundamental principles in radiological protection: justification, optimization, and dose limitation. For pediatrics, these principles are specifically tailored to address the unique vulnerabilities of children:
Justification: Any radiological procedure should be justified, meaning the benefits should outweigh the potential risks, especially in children. Optimization: The radiation dose should be kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) while still achieving the desired diagnostic or therapeutic outcome. Dose Limitation: Although dose limits apply primarily to occupational exposure, it is crucial to monitor and limit the dose received by children to prevent unnecessary exposure.
