Radiation Safety Practice Exam

Which method is advisable for decontaminating personnel with suspected radiation exposure?

1. Use abrasive materials for scrubbing

2. Perform decontamination outdoors only

3. Flush open wounds with clean water

4. Microwave contaminated clothing

The correct answer is: Flush open wounds with clean water

The advisable method for decontaminating personnel with suspected radiation exposure involves flushing open wounds with clean water. This approach is crucial because it helps to cleanse the wound of contaminants that may have been introduced during the exposure. Proper decontamination of wounds is essential to reduce the risk of infections and to remove any radioactive material that could enter the bloodstream, ultimately minimizing further health risks. Using clean water helps to dilute and wash away potential contaminants effectively. After flushing the wound, it is also important to seek medical attention for further evaluation and treatment, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to protect the person’s health and safety. Other methods mentioned, such as using abrasive materials or microwaving contaminated clothing, could potentially cause more harm than good. For instance, abrasive scrubbing can irritate the skin or exacerbate injuries, while microwaving clothing is not a practical or effective decontamination method and could lead to further hazards. Performing decontamination outdoors exclusively does not consider that contaminated materials might need to be managed in controlled environments, depending on the situation.