Why must pregnant individuals be monitored for radiation exposure?

Monitoring pregnant individuals for radiation exposure is crucial primarily to protect the developing fetus from potential harm. During pregnancy, the fetus is particularly vulnerable to the effects of radiation, which can lead to adverse outcomes such as developmental issues, congenital abnormalities, and increased risk of cancer in later life. The growing cells of the fetus are more sensitive to radiation compared to adult cells, as they are undergoing rapid division and differentiation.

Safety protocols are in place to limit exposure to radiation for everyone, but especially for pregnant individuals, to safeguard both their health and that of their unborn child. This concern is why monitoring and implementing protective measures, such as shielding and limiting exposure time, become essential in occupational and clinical settings where radiation is present.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of radiation safety and workplace protocol, do not capture the specific and critical reason for monitoring pregnant individuals concerning radiation exposure. Personal injury, equipment safety, and workflow efficiency are important considerations, but they do not directly address the unique risks posed to the developing fetus.