When exposed to ionizing radiation, what material should staff and patients' personal protective equipment contain?

The correct material that should be included in personal protective equipment for both staff and patients when exposed to ionizing radiation is lead. Lead is highly effective at shielding against ionizing radiation due to its high atomic number and density, allowing it to absorb and block harmful radiation particles, such as X-rays and gamma rays. This makes it the material of choice in the construction of protective gear such as lead aprons, thyroid collars, and gloves used in medical and surgical environments.

Other materials listed, such as silicone, steel, and rubber, do not provide the same level of protection against radiation. For example, silicone and rubber are typically used for their flexibility and comfort but lack the density required to effectively block radiation. While steel has some shielding properties, it is not as effective as lead and is not commonly used in personal protective equipment specifically designed for radiation protection. Therefore, lead remains the standard for ensuring safety from ionizing radiation in clinical settings.