Assessment of knowledge and level of radiation safety awareness among Radiographers working in Nuclear Medicine.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Radiopharmaceuticals are used for diagnosis, treatment, staging and follow up of various diseases. However, there is concern that the ionizing radiation (gamma rays, α and ß particles) may result in the exposure of radiographers with limited knowledge of the principles of radiation protection and safety, raising the risk of cancer induction. OBJECTIVE To investigate the knowledge and level of radiation safety awareness among radiographers at a tertiary hospital. METHODS It is an analytical cross-sectional study. A validated two-part questionnaire was implemented to consenting radiographers in a Nuclear Medicine Department. Part 1 gathered demographic information (age, gender, work experience, attendance to/or passing ionizing radiation protection courses). Part 2 covered questions related to knowledge and level of awareness of radiation protection principles. RESULTS Five radiographers voluntary participated (2/5 were males while 3/5 were females). Three age groups were distinguishable, 21-30, 41-50 and 51-60 years. In the age group of 21-30 years, there was one male with just over 4 years of experience while in the age group 41-50, there were three females with less than three years of experience and in the age group 51-60, there was one male radiographer with over 20 years of experience. All the radiographers showed a high level of awareness and knowledge of radiation safety principles. CONCLUSION Education coupled with training in radiation protection is an essential tool for instilling radiation awareness among radiographers. However, education alone is not enough, further skills in preparation and administration of radiopharmaceuticals will reduce exposures.