Student Pregnancy Voluntary Declaration

Students who become pregnant during their enrollment in the radiology technology program have the ability to decide whether or not to notify the program. Students who decide to notify the program must do so by signing the noted declaration policy in the policy manual and providing a letterto the program director. Students that do not voluntarily disclose their pregnancy are considered not pregnant.

Upon disclosure of pregnancy, students may:

1. Remain in the program on a full-time basis with out modification, as requested by the student.
2. Remain in the program on a full-time basis with modification of clinical and academic assignments. This will be in the form of a “contract” between the program director and the student.
3. Withdraw from the radiology technology program.

Safety Practices for the Pregnant Radiation Worker

The American Society of Radiologic Technologist states, "Customary radiation safety practices for pregnant radiation workers shall be followed." The recommendation suggests referencing the following:

• 10 CFR Part 20.1208
• NRC Regulatory guides #8.2, 8.7, 8.13, 8.29, 8.34, 8.36, may be obtained from the NRC via the Public Document room a 1-800-397-4209 or via the Electronic Reading room ADAMS access system on their website at www.nrc.gov
• Pregnance Disability Law, P.L. 95-555
• EEOC "Guidelines on sex discrimination and questions and answers"
• ICRP Publication #84.  Pregnancy and Medical Radiation
• NCRP report #116

Note: The campus library holds the above reference material

In compliance with NCR regulation 10 CFR Part 20.1208, "Dose to an Embryo/Fetus," requires licensees to "ensure that the dose to an embryo/fetus during the entire pregnancy, due to occupational exposure of a declared pregnant woman, does not exceed 0.5 rem (5 mSv)."

These exposure limits will apply until:

1. The student gives birth
2. The student revokes in writing to the program director her previously declared pregnancy
3. The student informs the program director in writing that she is no longer pregnant

For students that formally declare their pregnancy:

• Past dosimetry reports will be reviewed
• Pregnant students will be required to purchase a second film badge to be worn at waist level and under any radiation protective apparel
• Review of radiation safety practices for pregnant radiation workers
• Notification to clinical instructors of pregnancy
• If students choose, they have the opportunity for clinical assignments that do not include fluoroscopy and portable radiography during their first trimester
• Students will submit a statement from the physician stating that the student is cleared to continue in the program
• Students will submit monthly statements from their physician to continue after the 6th month
• Review of student's monthly radiation dosimetry report

If the student makes the decision to withdraw from the radiology technology program, they may be reinstated the following year, providing space is available and they continue to meet admission criteria of the radiology technology program.