Occupational Chemical and RadiationExposure

Occupational Chemical and Radiation Exposure
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Occupational Chemical and Radiation Exposure
Increasing reports of infertility, especially in the United States, are associated with the increasing populations of individuals who spend a substantial amount of time exposed to hazardous chemicals or radiation at their workplaces. The rising populations can be attributed to the reliance on technologically advanced methods of manufacturing and treatment. Hence, a majority of the victims are those working in health institutions or manufacturing plants. According to Warren, Walker, and Nathan (2014), the cumulative exposure to such chemicals as dioxins, benzidine and vinyl chloride primarily used in manufacturing plants and medical radiation such as x-rays, UV rays, gamma rays used in healthcare settings, have a gradual effect which eventually results in reproductive toxicity.
Despite the health challenges that the exposure to occupational chemicals and radiation poses, it becomes quite a challenge to avoid them in the professional setting, majorly due to the benefits associated with them. The lack of substitutes leaves no viable and practical preventive mechanism except proper management (Warren, Walker & Nathan, 2014). Additional preventive tools include the provision of adequate training as pertains to the use of the associated equipment, in a way that limits exposure, the use of the recommended protective clothing. A community health nurse can get involved in sensitizing the public regarding occupational safety, so plant employees become aware of the expected work gear.

The nurse should also be keen limit the number x-ray examinations conducted on a patient (Warren, Walker & Nathan, 2014). They can ensure that by evaluating the need for each x-ray examination, and going ahead only if it necessary. This not only helps the patient, but it also helps the nurse to reduce the rates of exposure to occupational radiation. Besides having the rest of the patient’s body protected by shields, the nurses themselves should be sure to wear protective clothing.
Reference
Warren, R., Walker, B., & Nathan, V. (2014). Environmental Factors Influencing Public Health and Medicine: Policy Implications [Ebook]. NHI. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov/