Real-Time Monitoring of Occupational Radiation Exposure in Nuclear Medicine Technologists: An Initial Study

Occupational radiation exposure in nuclear medicine presents complex spatial and temporal patterns due to the use of unsealed radiopharmaceuticals and prolonged proximity to patients. Traditional passive dosimetry provides only cumulative dose values, limiting its usefulness in identifying task-specific exposures or capturing momentary fluctuations. This study applied a real-time dosimetry system capable of second-by-second measurements, combined with time-series analysis, to evaluate staff exposure during myocardial perfusion imaging using technetium-99m. Dosimeters were placed on the left and right sides of the neck and head of two radiological technologists. Dose rates were continuously recorded throughout the injection and imaging phases. The right side of the neck received the highest cumulative and peak dose rates among all sites. Although no significant difference in total dose was observed between the injection and imaging phases, specific high-exposure events were detected. Notably, ECG lead placement and post-injection handling produced dose spikes. A positive correlation was found between administered activity and dose rate at neck-level sites but not at head-level sites. These findings demonstrate the value of real-time dosimetry in identifying procedural actions associated with elevated exposure. Time-series analysis further contextualized these peaks, supporting improved task-specific protective strategies beyond the capabilities of conventional dosimetry.