RadReview Radiation Protection Practice Test

Gonadal shielding is a critical consideration in radiographic examinations to minimize radiation exposure to the reproductive organs. In the case of male patients, shielding is particularly important during examinations where the gonads could be directly or indirectly exposed to radiation.

During a femur examination, the area near the knee or hip may require shielding depending on the specific region being imaged, as the radiation could scatter and affect the reproductive organs. In abdominal examinations, since the testes are located relatively high in the pelvis, there is a risk of exposure even if the primary focus is on the abdomen. Similarly, pelvic examinations are inherently close to the gonads; therefore, shielding is essential to protect these sensitive tissues from unnecessary radiation.

Given that all the mentioned examinations (femur, abdomen, and pelvis) can potentially lead to gonadal exposure, providing shielding in each case is a best practice in radiation safety. Therefore, it is appropriate to include gonadal shielding in all these scenarios to ensure minimal risk to male patients. The option stating all of the above correctly emphasizes the need for shielding across various examinations involving areas close to the gonads.