ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

The first indication of an extremity radiation overexposure is:

1. Loss of hair

2. Nausea

3. Reddish skin

4. A burning sensation

The correct answer is: Reddish skin

The first indication of an extremity radiation overexposure is typically reddish skin. When the skin experiences radiation exposure, it can react similarly to a sunburn, leading to redness and irritation. This reddening can be an early sign of radiation injury, indicating that the skin cells have been affected by the radiation dose received. Unlike loss of hair, which can occur after more significant radiation exposure and over a longer time period, or nausea and a burning sensation which can be associated with higher doses or different types of radiation exposure, the immediate response in the skin is more distinctly characterized by changes in color and appearance. Recognizing these symptoms early can help initiate appropriate medical assessment and intervention to mitigate further damage from radiation exposure.