A periodic blood count is not recommended as a method for monitoring occupational radiation exposure because
1)biologic damage from ionizing radiation cannot be determined from a blood test.
2)biologic damage has already been sustained when an irregularity is seen in the blood count.
3)a traditional blood count is a relatively insensitive test that is unable to indicate exposures of less than 10 cGy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

2 and 3 are correct because biologic damage from ionizing radiation indeed may have already occurred by the time changes are observed in a blood count, and traditional blood counts are relatively insensitive, often unable to detect exposures below 10 cGy.

A Periodic Blood Count Is Not Recommended as a Method