NAC459.5934. Electronic brachytherapy devices: Spot checks.

     1. A registrant shall ensure that a program is in place to perform spot checks on each electronic brachytherapy system:

     (a) At the beginning of each day during which the system will be used;

     (b) Each time the system is moved to a new room or site; and

     (c) After the installation of an X-ray tube.

     2. The spot check must ensure the following components are operating properly:

     (a) The indicator lights for radiation exposure on the electronic brachytherapy system and on the control console;

     (b) The viewing and intercom systems in each facility, if applicable;

     (c) The radiation monitors, if applicable; and

     (d) The integrity of all cables, catheters or parts of the system that carry high voltages.

     3. A spot check of the dosimetry of a system must include a check which indicates that the output of the X-ray source is within 3 percent of the expected value, including, as appropriate:

     (a) Output as a function of time;

     (b) Output as a function of a setting on a monitor chamber;

     (c) Verification of the consistency of the dose distribution to within 3 percent of that found during calibration;

     (d) Validation of the operation of methods of positioning to ensure that the treatment dose exposes the intended location within 1 millimeter; and

     (e) Inspection of all treatment components for imperfections on the day of use.

     4. A registrant shall retain a record of each spot check for at least 3 years. The record must include:

     (a) The date of the spot check;

     (b) The name of the manufacturer, model number and serial number of the electronic brachytherapy system checked;

     (c) Notations which indicate the operability of radiation monitors, indicator lights for source exposure, viewing and intercom systems, applicators, source transfer tubes, transfer tube-applicator interfaces and the accuracy of source positioning, as applicable; and

     (d) The name and signature of the person who performed the spot check.

     (Added to NAC by Bd. of Health by R185-08, eff. 5-7-2010)