TABLE 4.
HDR brachytherapy afterloader QA with periodicity and tolerance
| Periodic test description | Frequency | Tolerance recommended (required) |
|---|---|---|
| Source strength measurement | SE | 3% (5%) |
| Source positioning accuracyI | SE, D | 1 (2) mm |
| Source retraction with backup battery upon power failure | SE | Functional |
| Timer accuracyII | SE, D | 1 s or 1% whichever is greater |
| Timer linearityIII | AS | 1% (3%) |
| Electrical interlocks at room entrance (door interlock(s)) | SE, D | Functional |
| Emergency source retraction button | SE, D | Functional |
| “Last person” out button (if present) | SE, D | Functional |
| Treatment interrupt button | SE, D | Functional |
| Source out indicators on the unit, console, wall, and so forth | SE, D | Functional |
| Audio/visual systems | D | Functional |
| Emergency response kit complete | D | Functional |
| Independent radiation room monitor and remote display | D | Functional |
| Calibrated survey meter present | D | Functional |
| Console computer date and time accuracy | SE, D, Daylight time changes | 1 h |
| Decayed source strength (or activity) in console (compared to decay chart) | SE, D | 1% |
| Catheter misconnect/channel/turret check | D | Functional |
| TPS to console software communication | SE | Functional |
Abbreviations: AS, after service; D, daily (on patient treatment day); SE, source exchange.