Knowledge Of Radiation Protection Research Articles

Development and validation of a questionnaire on radiation protection knowledge, attitudes, and practices among Moroccan dentists.

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the validity and reliability of dentists' radiation protection knowledge, attitudes, and practices (DRP-KAPs) questionnaire. This study was conducted using a stepwise approach. In the first step, items were generated to determine the relevant content and domains after a thorough literature review. In the second step, the content validity of the questionnaire was assessed by seven experts using face and content validity. The content validity index for relevance and clarity (I-CVI, S-CVI/Av, and S-CVI/UA) and the content validity ratio (CVR) were performed. Then, the questionnaire was pre-tested with 10 dentists for face validation. In the third step, reliability was assessed using internal consistency (Kuder-Richardson-20 (KR-20) and Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest (Kappa and intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]) methods by filling out the questionnaire by 100 dentists practicing in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, in Morocco. The finalized DRP-KAPs questionnaire contains 41 items covering knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs). The I-CVIs, S-CVI/UA and S-CVI/AV and CVR values of the 41 items were ≥0.86 for each item, ≥0.82, ≥0.97, and ≥0.71, respectively. With regard to internal consistency reliability, the KR-20 coefficients for the knowledge and practice domains were 0.70 and 0.68, respectively, and the Cronbach alpha for the attitude domain was 0.73. The DRP-KAPs questionnaire has good reliability with the ICC coefficients for attitude items ranging from 0.57 to 0.95 and Kappa coefficients for knowledge and practice items ranging from 0.64 to 1 and 0.77 to 1, respectively. The developed DRP-KAPs questionnaire was found to be a noteworthy tool for assessing radiation protection among dentists, with acceptable internal consistency, good ICC and Kappa coefficients, and good content validity indices.

Evaluation of emergency nurses’ knowledge of medical response in nuclear and radiological emergencies : a cross-sectional study

BackgroundEvaluating emergency room nurses’ knowledge of radiation protection, health effects, and decontamination procedures is crucial for preparedness in nuclear and radiological emergencies. This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge among emergency nurses in Saudi Arabia regarding medical responses to nuclear and radiological emergencies.MethodsA multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted via a self-structured questionnaire with 15 true‒false questions divided into three domains, namely, radiation protection measures, radiation health effects, and decontamination procedures, each with five items and a possible score of 1 point per correct answer. The collected data were analyzed via descriptive and inferential statistics. The study followed the STROBE checklist for methodological rigor.ResultsA total of 594 emergency nurses participated in this study, with the majority being young (64.50% aged ≤ 30), female (68.69%), bachelor’s degree-holding (67.68%), single (63.64%), having ≤ 4 years of experience (56.06%), working in public health facilities (88.89%), and lacking training in medical response (85.35%). The mean knowledge scores for participants were highest for radiation exposure effects (3.27 ± 0.91), followed by radiation protective measures (2.32 ± 0.99), and lowest for decontamination procedures (1.46 ± 1.07). Overall knowledge was measured at a mean score of 7.06 ± 1.68, with 97.47% of the nurses categorized as having poor knowledge level. Nurses in private hospitals scored higher (7.77 ± 1.82) than those in public hospitals (6.97 ± 1.65) on overall mean knowledge (P = 0.034). Concerning findings include emergency nurses’ misconceptions about the protection provided by dense materials, the effectiveness of increasing distance from a radiation source, and prioritizing decontamination of victims over life-saving measures. Additionally, they were unaware of the immediate symptoms following radiation exposure and misunderstood that the primary threat in a radioactive bomb event is the explosion rather than the radiation itself.ConclusionThis study revealed poor knowledge among emergency nurses regarding medical responses to radiation emergencies and highlighted the critical need for enhanced and standardized training in radiation emergency preparedness among nurses. The gaps in knowledge identified in this study could significantly impact the effectiveness of healthcare responses in radiation emergency scenarios. Therefore, targeted educational interventions and policy changes are recommended to address these shortcomings.

Evaluation of radiation protection knowledge and practices among Moroccan operating room nurses

Evaluation of radiation protection knowledge and practices among Moroccan operating room nurses

Literacy in the Scope of Radiation Protection for Healthcare Professionals Exposed to Ionizing Radiation: A Systematic Review.

Background: The use of radiation is important in different medical procedures, and to ensure a high level of good medical practice, radiation protection (RP) should be seen as a very important subject. This review shows information about the knowledge in the scope of radiation protection among healthcare professionals exposed to ionizing radiation. There are not many studies that evaluate the radiation exposure of healthcare professionals. Methods: A systematic search was performed, using PRISMA guidelines, in Pubmed and Scopus databases and manually to identify relevant articles to answer the PICOS question, "Is there an adequate level of literacy in the scope of radiation protection among healthcare professionals exposed to ionizing radiation?". This systematic review included cross-sectional studies with the following inclusion criteria: (i) in Portuguese, Spanish, or English; (ii) about literacy in the scope of radiation protection; (iii) published between 2017 and 2024; and (iv) participants must be dentists, radiographers, doctors, and nurses. The JBI critical assessment tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Results: The search identified 566 potentially relevant references, which, after applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, resulted in 12 articles. Studies found that the overall knowledge of these healthcare workers was unsatisfactory, and a lack of knowledge in radiation protection negatively affects health services' quality. Training is essential and must emphasize how radiation exposure can be minimized, safeguarding health professionals' trust and sense of security. Results showed that more years of experience make workers more attentive to protection measures, suggesting that training strategies focused on basic radiological risks and radiation safety are needed. Conclusions: Key findings recommend implementing a standardized national training program on the basic principles and safety of ionizing radiation for all healthcare professionals.

Assessment of Radiation Protection Knowledge and Practical Skills Among Health Services Vocational School Students Using Dosimeters

Radyasyon tabanlı cihazlar çeşitli hastalıkların teşhisinde kritik öneme sahiptir. Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokullarındaki öğrenciler klinik stajları sırasında gözetim altında farklı radyasyon tabanlı cihazları kullanmaktadırlar. Bu anket çalışması, sağlık teknisyeni öğrencilerinin radyasyondan korunma ve uygulama konusundaki bilgilerini değerlendirmek ve iyonlaştırıcı radyasyon güvenliği konusunda farkındalıklarını artırmak için tasarlanmıştır. Çalışmanın katılımcıları Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulu ikinci sınıf öğrencileridir. Radyolojik muayeneler hakkındaki temel bilgilerini ölçmeyi amaçlayan 20 çoktan seçmeli soru ve 8 demografik sorudan oluşan bir anketi tamamlamaları istenmiştir . Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulundan toplam 123 öğrenci (40'ı radyoterapi programında ve 83'ü tıbbi görüntüleme programında ) ankete katılmıştır. Anket sonuçlarına göre, öğrencilerin hiçbiri radyasyon güvenliği ile ilgili soruların tamamını doğru cevaplayamamıştır. Ancak öğrencilerin %76,6'sı " Radyaktif kaynak enjeksiyonundaki radyasyon dozu kesinlikle güvenlidir ve sağlık üzerinde hiçbir etkisi yoktur." ifadesine doğru cevap vermiştir. Ayrıca, öğrencilerin %73,5'i görüntüleme prosedürleri sırasında kurşun önlük ve tiroid kalkanı kullanmanın gerekliliğinin farkında olduklarını belirtti. Çalışmamız, Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulu'ndaki öğrencilerin genel olarak mesleki sağlık ve güvenliğin yanı sıra radyasyon koruması konusunda da tatmin edici bir anlayışa sahip olduğunu buldu. Bu bulgular ışığında, üniversitelerin radyasyon koruma eğitimine daha fazla vurgu yapması ve bu alanda devam eden eğitim fırsatlarını artırması önerilmektedir .

Knowledge And Attitude Of Nurses About Radiation Safety And Radiation Protection: A Scoping Review

Background: Radiation is an electromagnetic wave which is coming across the daily activity of humans. There are naturally occurring and man-made radiations. X-rays, being the commonest radiation mostly known to the people are used in the medica field for diagnostic and therapeutic aspects. Despite of being at good in the preliminary evaluation of pathologies, it also possess a risk of biological effects of radiation on living tissues. This is crucial for the people who are associated with radiation as part of their occupation. The occupational staff must be well aware of the biological effects of radiation and the different means of radiation protection and safety. Nurses, being the largest community in the healthcare, and associated with most of the procedures carried out in a hospital, are expected to have a good knowledge and understanding about the radiation and radiation safety. The aim of this review was to assess the nurses’ awareness and knowledge of radiation safety and protection, which is essential for their health and performance as a healthcare team. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed and ProQuest databases with relevant keywords from 2013 to 2023. A total of 104 articles were found based on the search techniques, were screened for eligibility based on predefined criteria and only 7 articles were included in the final analysis. Results: The review found that nurses’ knowledge and attitudes towards radiation safety and protection were insufficient and varied across different settings and specialties. The main barriers to adequate knowledge and practice were lack of education, training, and resources. Conclusion: The review highlighted the need for improving nurses’ knowledge and competence in radiation safety and protection through regular and comprehensive training programs, guidelines, and policies. This would enhance the quality and safety of the services provided by the nurses and protect them from the harmful effects of radiation exposure.

Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Radiation Hazards and Radiation Protection among the Undergraduate Dental Students in C.S.M.S.S Dental College and Hospital, Chh. Sambhajinagar- A Questionnaire Based Cross-sectional Study

Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Radiation Hazards and Radiation Protection among the Undergraduate Dental Students in C.S.M.S.S Dental College and Hospital, Chh. Sambhajinagar- A Questionnaire Based Cross-sectional Study

Assessing the Use of Radiation Protection Equipment: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among Dental Students

Background: Proper radiation protection is crucial for minimizing exposure risks in dental radiography. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and practices of dental students regarding radiation protection equipment. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted with 100 dental students, including third-year students, final-year students, interns, and postgraduates. The questionnaire assessed participants' understanding of radiation protection principles, use of protective equipment, and attitudes toward radiation safety. Data were analyzed using statistical methods, including chi-square tests. Results: The study found that 73% of participants had good knowledge and awareness of radiation protection equipment and radiation dosage. Despite this, adherence to recommended practices was poor. A significant association was observed between gender and the use of lead aprons during radiographs (p-value = 0.03), indicating a difference in practice based on gender. Conclusion: While dental students generally exhibit strong knowledge and awareness of radiation protection, there is a notable gap in the practical application of protective measures. The findings highlight the need for improved training and adherence to radiation safety practices to ensure the well-being of both patients and practitioners.

Radiation Protection Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Fluoroscopy-Utilizing Doctors at Misurata Medical Centre, Libya.

Radiation Protection Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Fluoroscopy-Utilizing Doctors at Misurata Medical Centre, Libya.

Knowledge and Practice of Diagnostic Reference Levels, Radiation Protection, and Safety among Dental Professionals and Dental Undergraduate Students in the United Arab Emirates: A Multicentric Study

Abstract Background: Dental radiographic examinations deliver low doses of radiation with low biological risks; however, low doses can lead to a cumulative risk. Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) indicate typical practice in a country or region. Surveys to establish DRLs can help acquire dose information, and less attention to DRLs can have consequences for the patient and dental workers. This study aims to determine the knowledge and practice of DRLs, radiation protection, and safety among dental professionals and dental undergraduate students in the United Arab Emirates. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed among dental students, general dental practitioners, dental faculty, and radiographers from dental universities in the United Arab Emirates. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of radiation safety of 221 participants. Results: Among the surveyed respondents, 58 (26.2%) had a good level of knowledge, 94 (42.50%) had an average level, and 69 (31.2%) had a poor level. 30.3% of the respondents were aware of the DRLs in dental radiography. Only 10 survivors were able to accurately mention the national DRL for intraoral adult radiography. The level of knowledge is significantly associated with age (P < 0.0001), year of experience (P < 0.0001), and professional development courses (P = 0.024). Almost half had an average level of practice, 30.8% a good level and 22.6% a low level. The level of practice is influenced by age (P = 0.001), qualification (P = 0.034), and experience (P = 0.022). Conclusions: Knowledge of DRLs, radiation protection, and safety is adequate among the sample surveyed. However, translation of this knowledge into practice is lacking, which warrants the need for further training and enhancement of dental health-care workers.

Awareness of radiation hazards and knowledge of radioprotective measures among radiologists and non-radiology staff: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundIonizing radiation has become increasingly utilized in medical practice. Consequently, healthcare workers must be aware of radiation hazards and apply the necessary countermeasures to reduce occupational exposure. This study assessed the awareness of radiation hazards and knowledge of radiation protection measures among radiologists and non-radiologists. These findings may improve the application of various safety measures during medical interventions involving radiation.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study among 200 medical personnel, including consultant surgeons, physicians, radiologists, nurses, and radiographers, across five hospitals in Jordan between November 2022 and February 2023. The questionnaire collected data on demographic characteristics, awareness of radiation hazards, and knowledge of radioprotective techniques.ResultsOverall, the knowledge of radiation protection and awareness of radiation hazards among the participants were poor (51.55% and 37.17%, respectively). No significant difference was detected between the medical disciplines in terms of the level of knowledge of radiation protection; however, radiographers were significantly more aware of radiation hazards.ConclusionsAccording to our findings, medical personnel generally have poor awareness of radiation hazards and radiation protection protocols. However, this understanding can be enhanced through periodic in-service training and regular monitoring of occupational radiation exposure by health professionals.

3192: Evaluation of radiation protection knowledge and practices among radiotherapy professionals

3192: Evaluation of radiation protection knowledge and practices among radiotherapy professionals

Radiation protection knowledge and practices among Moroccan dentists: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo analyze the current status of knowledge and practices among the Moroccan dentists in the region of Rabat-Salé-Kenitra, towards radiation protection. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study based on a questionnaire related to knowledge and practice regarding radiation protection of patients and dental staff from April to June 2022. The study sample included 325 dentists practicing in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region. The target population consisted of all dentists working in public, semi-public and private workplaces. Results96.6% of dentists were aware of radiation protection. However, nearly 35% were aware of ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle and 73.9% thought that dental X-rays are harmful. 63.6%of subjects used digital image receptor. Only 16.7% of them used a film holder and more than 60% didn't follow the position and distance rule. The median knowledge score was 7 [5, 9], and there was a statistically significant difference according to dentist qualification (P ​= ​0.007), dental radiation protection continuous training (P ​< ​0.0001), age (P = ​0.007) and years of experience (P ​= ​0.039). The median practice score was 5 [4, 6] and there was a statically significance association according to workplace setting (P ​= ​0.001). There was a significant positive relationship between knowledge score and practice score (r ​= ​0.24, P<0.0001). Dentist qualification (OR 0.51, 95%CI: 0.27–0.94, P ​= ​0.03) and continuous training (OR 2.40, 95%CI: 1.47–3.93, P<0.0001) were significant predictors of knowledge, while workplace setting (OR 0.54, 95%CI: 0.32–0.93, P ​= ​0.027) and knowledge score (OR 1.24, 95%CI: 1.12–1.38, P<0.0001) were predictors of practices. ConclusionImproving dentists' knowledge of radiation protection measures and tools as well as dose reduction techniques could increase their safe practices in dental radiology.

Evaluation of radiation dose and establishment of local DRLs for adult during abdominopelvic CT scan imaging for university hospital centers, Morocco

Objective: In this study, we have planned to establish the local Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) for the five University Hospital Centers in Morocco and to propose a national DRL for abdominopelvic CT examinations for adult patients. Materials and methods: Data were collected using a specially designed form, which included patient demographics, exposure parameters and dosimetric indicators such as dose-length product (DLP) and CT volume dose index (CTDIvol). The establishment of local and national DRL in terms of CTDIvol and DLP was carried out in accordance with the methodology described in Report 135 of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). The effective dose was assessed using the DLP and the dose conversion factor appropriate for this location. Results: A total of 300 patients undergoing abdominopelvic examinations at the five Moroccan university hospitals were collected for this study. Patients' mean age, weight and BMI were (50.97 ± 15.05) years (67.94 ± 11.41) Kg and (25.71 ± 3.03) Kg/m2 respectively. The local DRL, in terms of DLP were 551.56, 2293.33, 709.02, 843.52 and 1059.62 mGy-cm and in terms of CTDIvol were 11,05, 46,40, 13,14, 12,01, 9,88 mGy respectively for UHC-1, UHC-2, UHC-3, UHC-4 and UHC-5 hospitals. The proposed National DRL, defined as a single value for the 75th percentile on the aggregation of data from the five centers, for abdominopelvic scan CT was 773.20 mGy.cm and 12.05 mGy for DLP and CTDIvol, respectively. Conclusion: The Moroccan DRL was comparable to those of other countries, ranking 10th among 21 countries. However, we are still seeking to reduce and optimize radiation dose while maintaining good image quality for reliable diagnosis, and this can be achieved by enhancing radiographers' and radiologists' knowledge of radiation protection, protocol justification, and optimization through rigorous hospital radiation audits at national level.

Application of Radiographic/Imaging Techniques: A Questionnaire Study Involving Private Practitioners in Malaysia

Abstract Background: A study was carried out to get an updated overview of the applications of radiographic/imaging techniques, types of dental X-ray machines, and radiation hygiene tendencies among private dental practitioners. Materials and Methods: A survey was carried out to obtain an overview of the application of radiographic techniques by sending a questionnaire (Google Forms) to more than 1000 private dental practitioners in all states of Malaysia. In addition, several questionnaires were also completed by visiting many dental clinics in person. Results: A total of 410 responses were received. Results indicated that a majority of the practitioners owned at least an intraoral radiographic machine (90.9%). A relatively high number had panoramic machines (76.1%) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) machines (42.5%). Intraoral images were acquired by private dentists at a rate of 11–20 per month (34.3%, n = 116 respondents), with only 13.6% (n = 46 respondents) acquiring more than 50 per month. With regard to panoramic and CBCT imaging, most of them took between 1 and 30 panoramic images and 1–20 CBCT scans, respectively, in a month. Conclusion: General dental practitioners in Malaysia are very dependent on various dental imaging techniques that can be performed in their own clinics. The demographic status indicated that most of the advanced imaging machines were owned by young practitioners as they are better exposed to these imaging modalities. Moreover, although the respondents graduated from universities in different countries, they had a high level of knowledge of radiation protection (&gt;80%) when practicing oral and maxillofacial radiography.

A study on awareness, knowledge, and practice of radiation exposure protection protocols by dentists in a Nigerian teaching hospital

Objectives: The role of dental radiography cannot be over-emphasized but the harmful effect of its radiation cannot be overlooked, thereby making the knowledge and practice of exposure protection very important. While studies on awareness, knowledge, and practice exposure protection are available in other countries, it appears that there is a dearth of such studies in our environment. The aim of this survey was to assess the awareness, knowledge, and practice of radiation hazards and exposure protection techniques of dentists in a Nigerian teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study design was conducted between December 2022 and February 2023 at the dental complex of a Nigerian teaching hospital among dental practitioners. The data were collected with a 23-item, structured, close-ended, and self-administered questionnaire. The data collected were age, gender, department of respondents, medical status, years of experience, and additional degree. Other collected data were awareness, knowledge, and practice of radiation protection. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. The data were entered and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 26 (IBM, Armonk, NY, United States of America). A critical probability level (P &lt; 0.05) was used as the cutoff level for statistical significance. Results: A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed, and 82 were retrieved, giving a response rate of 82%. The mean age of the respondents was 45.3 ± 5.1 years. There were more males (58.5%) with a male-to-female ratio of 1.4:1. The prevalence of poor awareness and inadequate knowledge of radiation exposure protection was 48.2% and 22.4%, respectively. The prevalence of poor practice toward radiation exposure was 66.7%. Only years of experience and additional degree influenced the prevalence of inadequate knowledge of radiation exposure (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of poor awareness, inadequate knowledge, and poor practice of radiation exposure protection, with values of 48.2%, 22.4%, and 66.7%, respectively, were quite high. The prevalence of inadequate knowledge of radiation exposure protection was influenced by years of practice and additional degrees.

Assessment of Knowledge and Practice on Radiation Protection in Radiological Imaging Among Healthcare Professionals at HPUniSZA

Ionizing radiation aids in diagnosing and treating diseases. However, without proper knowledge and practice of radiation protection, it can be harmful, especially among healthcare professionals. This study aims to examine the knowledge and practice of radiation protection among healthcare workers at the HPUniSZA. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the HPUniSZA from March 2022 to June 2023 for healthcare professionals in HPUniSZA. The questionnaire was distributed online and through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sociodemographic, knowledge, and practice of radiation protection while Pearson’s correlation was used to determine the relationship between knowledge and practice of radiation protection among the respondents. A total of 60 healthcare professionals in HPUniSZA participated in this study. The mean knowledge level was found to be 6.20 (SD, 2.905) indicating a range of medium-good level of knowledge of radiation protection while for practice was found to be 8.20 (SD, 2.394) indicating a good practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals. A significant positive and fair correlation (r = 0.48, p &lt; 0.001) was demonstrated between knowledge and practice levels on radiation protection in radiological imaging. The knowledge level and the practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals are in the range of medium-good level and good levels respectively. There is a correlation between knowledge and practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals in HPUniSZA. Assessing the knowledge and practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals is of utmost importance to ensure patient safety, minimize radiation risks, and facilitate effective and efficient healthcare delivery both now and in the future.

Evaluasi Pengetahuan Proteksi Radiasi dan Parameter Pencitraan CT Scan yang Berhubungan dengan Dosis Pasien pada Radiografer dan Fisikawan Medik

The knowledge of all personnel who take part in a CT scan examination is needed to ensure optimization. Therefore, every CT scan examination can enforce the ALARA principle optimally. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge of medical physicists and radiographers regarding the procedures for using CT scans (radiation protection aspects and image parameters). This study used Google Forms to conduct a questionnaire survey aimed at medical physicists and radiographers. Questionnaires consist of 2 types, namely in the form of yes or no questions (0 for no and 1 for yes) and Likert questions (scale 1-4). The survey results were then statistically tested using SPSS version 25.0 software: validity, reliability, and independence Pearson chi-square test. 33 (66%) radiographers and 17 (34%) medical physicists were the respondents of this study. The questionnaire instrument was declared valid (with a significance P &lt;0.05) and consistent with Cronbach's Alpha values (.651, .802 and .811). Radiographers and medical physicists understand the basics of radiation protection very well, with percentages of 69.7% and 88.2%, respectively. The knowledge level of image parameters with perfect criteria for radiographers and medical physicists is 57.6% and 88.2%. The Pearson chi-square test of independence found no significant relationship between knowledge of radiation protection and image parameters on recent education with P(.461 and .594) and the relationship between knowledge of protection and length of work experience with P(.285). Limited participants and questionnaire instruments caused it. However, a significant relationship exists between knowledge of image parameters and length of work experience with P(.018). Along with the limited number of respondents and questions on the questionnaire, there is a significant relationship between knowledge of image parameters and length of work experience in this study. Keywords: personnel knowledge, radiation protection, image parameters, radiographers, and medical physicists

Implementation of Deviation Index to Optimization Procedures on Radiography Examination Using Digital Radiography

In the development of radiographic imaging technology at digital radiography (DR) is not accompanied by an increase in radiographers' awareness and knowledge of optimization procedures. The aim of this research will focus on the implementation of the deviation index to optimize procedures using digital radiography. The research method is descriptive and analytical by giving questionnaires to radiographers regarding awareness and knowledge of optimization procedures in radiographic examinations using deviation index (DI) on digital radiography (DR), This research was conducted on radiographer respondents with the research time being conducted between August - October 2023. Statistical analysis using SPSS 27 with prior data coding. After that, the measurement of the percentage of awareness and knowledge about optimization procedures using DI on DR will be categorized as &lt;60%: bad, 60-75%: moderate, and&gt;75: good. Then for the value determination p-value using test chi-squere to determine the correlation between knowledge of region, age, gender, education, and experience in optimization procedures using DI in DR. The study's findings regarding the use of optimization procedure demonstrate that radiographers' awareness and knowledge in applying DI on DR optimization methods is still lacking, with a percentage value of less than 60%. The results of the test chi-square demonstrate that there is no correlation between respondent data characteristics and knowledge p-value &gt; 0.05. Therefore, attending radiation protection training and course is a crucial step toward raising radiographers awareness and knowledge of radiation protection on patient. because the radiology department's quality assurance and service quality measures are linked to initiatives to optimize procedures.

Assessment of radiographers' knowledge about radiation doses and DRLs in computed tomography departments in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo assess radiographers' understanding of radiation safety considering the newly approved national diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) as an optimization tool for radiation dose. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia among radiographers working at local hospitals in Jeddah city from February to March 2022. The survey comprised of 22 questions involving demographic information; and general information related to radiation dose; CTDIvol and DRLs. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26. Chi-square test was used to compare demographic groups regarding their distribution of responses with 0.05 as the level of significance. ResultsA total of 169 radiographers participated in the study (39 % females, 60 % males). Most of the participants (91 %) were aware of the description of the ALARA principle. It was noted that (47 %) of the participants indicated that the routine scanning protocols are designed by the radiologists. The majority of them (78 %) were confident to manipulate the CT scanning parameters properly. In addition, half of the participants (53 %) were aware of the CTDIvol and DLP. Unexpectedly, none of the demographic variables were significantly associated with the radiographers’ knowledge about radiation dose, p-values are > 0.05. ConclusionAlthough radiographers demonstrated good knowledge of radiation protection, limited awareness of DRLs was noted among radiographers and lack of implementing and optimizing the local dose of the DRLs in this study. Therefore, education and training for healthcare professionals including radiographers are necessary to enhance clinical practical performance in radiology departments.