Which device is commonly used to monitor radiation exposure for medical staff?

A dosimeter is a device specifically designed to measure and monitor an individual's exposure to ionizing radiation over a specified period. Medical staff working in environments where radiation is present, such as radiology departments or nuclear medicine facilities, routinely use dosimeters to keep track of their cumulative radiation dose. This monitoring is critical for ensuring that the exposure levels remain within regulatory safety limits to protect the health and safety of the medical personnel.

Dosimeters can come in various forms, including badges that are worn on the clothing, pocket-sized devices, and electronic readouts that provide immediate feedback. They work by capturing and recording the amount of radiation exposure that occurs, allowing for accurate assessments of exposure levels that inform safety practices and compliance with occupational health regulations.

In contrast, the other devices listed serve different purposes: a thermometer measures temperature, a Geiger counter detects and measures ionizing radiation but is not worn for personal exposure monitoring, and a sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure. Therefore, the dosimeter is the most appropriate choice for monitoring radiation exposure among medical staff.