Attitudes and practices of radiation protection among Jordanian dental radiography practitioners

Introduction

Varying radiation protection practices have been documented in the literature. This study aims to evaluate the attitudes and practices of dental radiography practitioners towards radiation protection in Jordan, as no data currently explores their understanding and practices in this area.

Methods

The survey involved 192 dental radiography practitioners. A cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire containing 43 questions covered socio-demographic data, practices towards radiation protection, and attitudes.

Results

The majority of participants were less than 40 years old (87.5 %), with 66.7 % working in private clinics and 53.6 % based in the capital city of Jordan. Nearly a quarter (26.5 %) of the practitioners used an X-ray tube voltage of 65–70 kVp; however, 14.6 % were unaware of the X-ray tube voltage used in their machines. Additionally, almost one quarter of the participants never or rarely used light beam positioning aids and available positioning guides in panoramic radiography practice. Only 33.3 % of practitioners consistently used lead aprons, with the main reasons for non-use being the weight of the apron or its unavailability. About 81 % of participants believed in spreading awareness about radiation protection and applying this knowledge in their daily practices.

Conclusions

The study found that the practitioners' practices were satisfactory to some extent, supported by a positive attitude towards radiation protection. The participants understand the importance of increasing their awareness and knowledge of radiation protection practices.

Implications for practice

The findings of this study highlight the need to improve radiation protection practices among dental radiography practitioners in Jordan by introducing standard dose protocols, supporting the transition to digital systems, establishing diagnostic reference levels, and encouraging the use of equipment over staff holding practices, and raising awareness about radiation safety.