Assessment of Radiation Protection Practices in Abbas Institute of Medical Sciences Muzaffrabad

Abstract

Background/objective: There is a substantial need for radiographers to improve their awareness of radiation protection issues and their knowledge of radiological procedures. Specific actions such as regular training courses for both undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as for working radiographers must be considered in order to assure patient safety during radiological examinations. The study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of radiology department workers towards radiation protection. Methodology: This descriptive study was carried out in the Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Abbas Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) from a period of August 2016 to January 2017. The calculated sample size was 29 and all the staff members and students who worked in the Radiology Department were included in the study following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A radiation protection practice was assessed by observing the availability of all radiation protection kits. Results: There were only 5 (17%) study subjects, trained and having diploma in radiology in radiology while 83% of study subjects were non-technical and untrained although educated in various science and arts qualification. Among all the study participants, 53% showed positive responses about their knowledge, attitude and practices regarding radiology procedures. Conclusion: There is a substantial need for radiology department workers to improve their awareness of radiation protection issues and their knowledge of radiological procedures.