Radiologists, the physicians who interpret medical images, have a professional wardrobe that changes depending on their specific tasks. Attire ranges from comfortable clothing used for image analysis to specialized protective gear required when working near radiation sources. This variation is driven by the need for professionalism, comfort during long hours, and safety requirements. The distinct environments, such as the reading room or the procedure suite, dictate the specific garments worn.
Attire for Diagnostic and Administrative Work
Radiologists focusing on diagnostic work, who spend most of their time interpreting images in a reading room or attending meetings, prioritize comfort. Many opt for scrubs, often provided by the hospital, which offer ease of movement and are easily cleaned, aligning with medical hygiene standards for long shifts.
Other diagnostic radiologists may wear business casual clothing, such as slacks and a dress shirt, for a more traditional professional appearance. A white lab coat is frequently worn over scrubs or street clothes, especially when interacting with patients or other clinicians. The white coat serves as a visual symbol of their physician status.
Mandatory Radiation Protection Equipment
When a radiologist is present during live imaging procedures like fluoroscopy, specific protective equipment is mandated to mitigate exposure to scatter radiation. The core piece of this gear is the lead apron, constructed from lead or lead-equivalent materials, designed to shield the torso and upper legs. These aprons commonly come in thicknesses such as 0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, or 0.5 mm, with wrap-around styles offering comprehensive coverage.
The apron is supplemented by a thyroid shield, a collar worn to protect the gland most sensitive to radiation exposure. Leaded glasses are also worn to protect the eyes, as radiation exposure increases the risk of cataract formation. A personal dosimeter is another mandatory item, required by regulation to monitor the cumulative occupational radiation dose received. Dosimeters are generally required for any individual likely to receive more than ten percent of the annual occupational dose limit. For accuracy, this badge is positioned outside the lead apron at the collar level to measure the dose to the unshielded head and neck.
Specialized Gear for Interventional Procedures
Interventional Radiologists (IRs) perform minimally invasive, image-guided procedures, requiring specialized attire that combines radiation protection with surgical sterility. Since these procedures occur in a sterile field, IRs must wear surgical attire, including a surgical cap and a mask, to prevent patient contamination. They also don a sterile gown over their scrubs and lead apron to maintain a barrier against infectious agents.
The lead shielding used during these procedures is often heavier and more specialized than that used for simple presence during imaging, given the extended time IRs spend in the procedure room. Specialized accessories, such as leaded gloves, may be worn to protect the hands when they must be close to the radiation source.
Practical Considerations and Hygiene
Practical and hygienic considerations are important for the radiologist’s attire. Given the long hours spent standing, particularly during interventional procedures while wearing a heavy lead apron, comfortable and supportive footwear is necessary. Shoes must be closed-toe and often feature slip-resistant soles to meet workplace safety requirements.
Professional standards require the consistent use of an identification badge for easy recognition by patients and other staff members. Maintaining high personal hygiene is also necessary in the medical setting, which is why institutions often provide hospital-laundered scrubs to reduce the risk of carrying pathogens outside the facility.