Radiation Safety Protocols Research Articles

Best Patient Care Practices for Administering PSMA-Targeted Radiopharmaceutical Therapy.

Optimal patient management protocols for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) are poorly defined and even further complexified with new therapy approvals, such as radiopharmaceuticals. The prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted agent 177Lu vipivotide tetraxetan ([177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617), approved after the phase III VISION study, presents physicians with additional aspects of patient management, including specific adverse event (AE) monitoring and management, as well as radiation safety. Drawing on our experience as VISION study investigators, here we provide guidance on best practices for delivering PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) to patients with mCRPC. After a comprehensive review of published evidence and guidelines on RPT management in prostate cancer, we identified educational gaps in managing the radiation safety and AEs associated with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617. Our results showed that providing sufficient education on AEs (e.g., fatigue and dry mouth) and radiation safety principles is key to effective delivery and management of patient expectations. Patient counseling by health care professionals, across disciplines, is a cornerstone of optimal patient management during PSMA-targeted RPT. Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial, and physicians must adhere to radiation safety protocols and counsel patients on radiation safety considerations. Treatment with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 is generally well tolerated; however, additional interventions may be required, such as dosing modification, medications, or transfusions. Urinary incontinence can be challenging in the context of radiation safety. Multidisciplinary collaboration between medical oncologists and nuclear medicine teams ensures that patients are monitored and managed safely and efficiently. In clinical practice, the benefit-to-risk ratio should always be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Boron neutron capture therapy and environmental health

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is an innovative cancer treatment modality that exploits neutron beams to specifically destroy malignant cells. Despite its assuring clinical benefits, BNCT familiarizes itself with unique environmental health considerations, including radiation safety, waste supervision, and potential ecological ramifications. This review investigates these aspects by appraising radiation safety protocols, waste disposal procedures, and environmental monitoring implementations associated with BNCT facilities. Effective radiation shielding and demanding safety protocols are necessary to protect occupational and public health from potential neutron radiation exposure. Waste management implementations must inscribe the treatment, handling, and disposal of radioactive and biological waste to anticipate environmental contamination. Long-term ecological monitoring is decisive for detecting and mitigating any adverse influences on surrounding ecosystems. The review also emphasizes the significance of public awareness and education in addressing environmental health concerns. By integrating case studies from various international perspectives and recognizing research gaps, this review aims to contribute comprehensive insights into the ecological health suggestions of BNCT and propose strategies for enhancing its sustainability. The findings accentuate the need for continuous improvement in safety measures, waste management, and public engagement to corroborate that BNCT can be safely and effectively implemented in a technique that protects both human health and the environment.

Enhancing radiation safety awareness and practices among female radiographers: a comprehensive approach

ObjectiveThis study evaluates the level of radiation safety awareness and adherence to protective practices among pregnant female radiographers in the United Arab Emirates, aiming to identify gaps and develop targeted interventions for enhancing occupational safety.MethodsEmploying a cross-sectional design, the study surveyed 133 female radiographers using a self-developed questionnaire covering demographics, awareness and knowledge, workplace practices, communication, and satisfaction.ResultsThe survey showed high awareness among radiographers, with 97% acknowledging radiation risks during pregnancy, although 42.9% had not received formal training. Concerns over long-term health effects were significant, with 66.2% of participants worried about potential impacts. Despite these concerns, 83.5% had been informed about radiation risks and protective measures, indicating active information provision in many workplaces. However, inconsistencies in information dissemination across different work settings were noted.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the need for standardized radiation safety protocols for pregnant radiographers. The variability in safety training and information dissemination suggests the importance of establishing uniform safety practices. Recommendations include developing comprehensive education and training programs for pregnant radiographers, ensuring open communication for radiation safety and pregnancy-related concerns, and enforcing clear guidelines for workplace accommodations.

Monte Carlo simulation analysis of radiation attenuation properties induced by arsenic accumulation in femur and tibia bones of rats exposed to sodium arsenite diet

PurposeThe study aims to investigate the effect of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) on radiation permeability in biological tissues of rats, challenging existing literature claims about NaAsO2's influence on the density of bones. The motivation is determining whether exposure alters radiation permeability within a defined range of radiological energy. Should any changes be observed, radiation protection guidelines may necessitate the use of lower energy levels in imaging procedures involving such exposure. This consideration is vital for ensuring adherence to radiation safety standards, particularly in medical imaging, where minimizing patient and operator exposure to radiation is paramount. Materials and methodsIn this study, rats were divided into two groups: a control group and a NaAsO2-treated group. After the treatment period, these animals were euthanized to collect their femurs and tibias for further analysis. The elemental composition of these bones was then meticulously examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), enhanced by Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDX). Monte Carlo Simulation codes of MCNP6 and PHITS 3.22 were used for investigate photon induced interactions. These powerful tools allowed us to assess the gamma-ray attenuation properties of the collected samples. For an accurate comparison and analysis, we referred to the NIST database using the WinXCom program. Furthermore, the study explored the effects of charged particles on the bone samples, employing the SRIM code for this purpose. This part of the research was crucial to understanding the interactions at a more detailed level. We calculated the photon attenuation parameters for radiological energies up to 0.5 MeV and also investigated the interactions of charged particles with energies as high as 15 MeV. ResultsIn groups treated with NaAsO2, while there is less reduction in mass attenuation coefficients, larger differences have been observed in linear attenuation coefficients. Notably, a decrease in the linear attenuation coefficient has been observed in the NaAs Tibia group. ConclusionThe application of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) results in a reduction in the Linear Attenuation Coefficient, necessitating a detailed investigation to determine whether this decrease also affects the Hounsfield unit, in accordance with the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle that guides radiation safety protocols.

Awareness and preparedness level of medical workers for radiation and nuclear emergency response.

Radiological science and nuclear technology have made great strides in the twenty-first century, with wide-ranging applications in various fields, including energy, medicine, and industry. However, those developments have been accompanied by the inherent risks of exposure to nuclear radiation, which is a source of concern owing to its potentially adverse effects on human health and safety and which is of particular relevance to medical personnel who may be exposed to certain cancers associated with low-dose radiation in their working environment. While medical radiation workers have seen a decrease in their occupational exposure since the 1950s thanks to improved measures for radiation protection, a concerning lack of understanding and awareness persists among medical professionals regarding these potential hazards and the required safety precautions. This issue is further compounded by insufficient capabilities in emergency response. This highlights the urgent need to strengthen radiation safety education and training to ensure the well-being of medical staff who play a critical role in radiological and nuclear emergencies. This review examines the health hazards of nuclear radiation to healthcare workers and the awareness and willingness and education of healthcare workers on radiation protection, calling for improved training programs and emergency response skills to mitigate the risks of radiation exposure in the occupational environment, providing a catalyst for future enhancement of radiation safety protocols and fostering of a culture of safety in the medical community.

Comprehensive analysis of occupational radiation exposure and radiation safety practices in cardiac catheterization laboratories: A five-year experience

AimThe objective is to analyze the occupational radiation dose experienced by medical workers in the Cardiac catheterization Lab in Bahrain and evaluate their adherence to established radiation safety protocols. Material and methodsRetrospective analysis for the Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) doses over a five-year (2017–2021). Descriptive analyses conducted for both annual dose and cumulative data across all years for all healthcare workers. A questionnaire was administered to evaluate their adherence to radiation safety protocols. Descriptive statistics were conducted for all responses and ANOVA was conducted to discern differences in best practices across various demographics groups. ResultsNo single dose exceeded the dose limits and 89.4% of the workers received Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) radiation doses of less than 2 mSv. The overall mean and range of the annual Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) radiation dose over the 5-year study period for all workers were 1.07 (9.50-0.01) and 0.64 (11.30-0.02), respectively. The overall mean and range of the annual Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) (mSv) for cardiologists were 1.79 (9.50-0.04) and 1.42 (11.30-0.07), respectively. The survey showed inconsistent practices and gaps. In best practice scoring, physicians had highest score and cardiovascular technologists scored the lowest. ConclusionIt is important to emphasize proper radiation safety practices for healthcare professionals to reduce the risk of long-term repeated exposure. Commitment to radiation safety is shows the dedication to providing high-quality care and adhering to radiation safety practices is an ethical obligation towards patient. There is a need for tailored training on radiation safety and enforcement of safety measures.

In-depth exploration of the radiation exposure to staff performing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures (ERCP) through RANDO phantom and TLDs.

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the occupational radiation exposure faced by healthcare professionals during Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures. Utilizing an anthropomorphic RANDO phantom equipped with Thermoluminescent Dosimeters (TLDs), we replicated ERCP scenarios to measure radiation doses received by medical staff. The study meticulously assessed radiation exposure in various corresponding body regions typically occupied by medical staff during ERCP, with a focus on eyes, thyroid, hands, and reproductive corresponding organ regions. The findings revealed significant variations in radiation doses across different body parts, highlighting areas of higher exposure and underscoring the need for improved protective measures and procedural adjustments. The effective radiation doses were calculated using standard protocols, considering the varying levels of protection offered by lead aprons and thyroid shields. The results demonstrate the substantial radiation exposure experienced by healthcare staff, particularly in regions not adequately shielded. This study emphasizes the necessity for enhanced radiation safety protocols in clinical settings, advocating for advanced protective equipment, training in radiation safety, and the exploration of alternative imaging modalities. The findings have crucial implications for both patient and staff safety, ensuring the continued efficacy and safety of ERCP and similar interventional procedures. This research contributes significantly to the field of occupational health and safety in interventional radiology, providing vital data for the development of safer medical practices.

A survey of the radiation safety practices of veterinary practitioners during portable equine radiography in Ireland.

Veterinary practitioners and other personnel involved in the examination are exposed to ionizing radiation while performing portable radiographs on horses. An online survey was distributed to all Veterinary Council of Ireland-registered practices where the self-reported practice profile is at least 20% equine work. The survey contained questions relating to radiation safety training, protocols, personal dosimetry and lead protection usage, repeat exposures, sedation, and personnel roles during the examination. The aim of the survey was to document the current radiation safety practices of equine veterinary practitioners during portable radiography. The results showed that although adherence to guidance set out by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reasonably good, compliance rates can be improved. Personal dosemeter usage and repeat rate reduction could particularly benefit from further improvement. This is of the utmost importance in ensuring that occupational radiation exposure to veterinary practitioners is kept to an absolute minimum during their daily practice.

Assessing the Adherence to Safety Protocol Among Personnel Working in the Dental Radiology Department: A Qualitative Cross-Sectional Study.

Implementing recommended radiation safety protocols in the radiology departments is crucial for the safety of the working personnel, patients, and environment. Similarly, adherence and continuous monitoring are essential, and few studies have been conducted in dental radiology settings regarding the occupational safety of employees. Hence, the present study was carried out to assess the knowledge and adherence of personnel to safety protocol in the dental radiology department. The questionnaire-based study was conducted in a dental institute involving the relevant staff and students, consisting of 25 participants including radiographers (a technician, faculty, and postgraduates) and auxiliary staff. The 14-elementquestionnaire with questions on radiation exposure, hazards, safety protocols, protective devices, and infrastructure was given to study participants, and data was obtained. Overall, the responses to the questionnaire were favorable in terms of awareness or knowledge of participants about radiation protection and protection devices. Notably, 71.4 % (15) of the participants agreed that they consistently wear PPDs, and 86.5% (18) agreed that the radiology operatory is well-equipped concerning radiation safety measures. On the whole, the responses to the questionnaire were encouraging from the auxiliary staff in terms of radiation protection awareness. The perception of study participants provides valuable insight to enhance the adherence to radiation safety protocol in the institutes. The study demonstrated that most participants revealed adequate knowledge of radiation exposure hazards, the need for personnel protection, and adherence to radiation safety protocol. This study would serve as the pilot project and may provide a platform for further multicenter studies to be carried out.

A cross-sectional observational study on quality assurance and radiation safety in interventional radiology

Background Interventional Radiology (IR) is anticipated to play an increasingly pivotal role in modern healthcare, providing vital minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis and treatment. As the frequency and complexity of IR procedures continue to evolve, maintaining impeccable standards in quality assurance (QA) and radiation safety becomes paramount. This study is designed to assess prevailing QA practices comprehensively, gauge adherence to forthcoming radiation safety guidelines, and proactively identify areas primed for advancement within diverse interventional radiology units. Methods Employing a prospective cross-sectional observational design on 48 health professionals, an array of healthcare facilities, each equipped with a state-of-the-art IR unit, will be purposefully selected. The study cohort will encompass diverse participants, including interventional radiologists, radiologic technologists, nurses, and medical physicists. The study will be conducted in the Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital’s facilities equipped with interventional radiology units. Analysis will be done by using R studio version 4.3.1 by using t-test and chi-square. Expected results The anticipated quantitative data analysis will undoubtedly yield nuanced insights into the participants’ multifaceted roles, experiences, and prospective perceptions concerning QA and radiation safety practices. In equal measure, the quantitative analysis is poised to uncover recurring thematic strands about the efficacy of current QA frameworks, radiation safety protocols, and the multifarious challenges envisaged in maintaining elevated standards. Study implication As this study unfolds, it will illuminate the evolving landscape of QA and radiation safety intrinsic to interventional radiology. This study is poised to guide future practice improvement, refine training paradigms, and shape forthcoming policies within this dynamic field by casting a discerning eye on potential gaps and imminent challenges. The conclusive insights are anticipated to underscore the enduring commitment required to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare professionals, concurrently fostering the pioneering trajectory of interventional radiology procedures.

Occupational radiation exposure in interventional cardiology: Assessing anesthesia staff 's skin dose with thermoluminescent dosimetry

This research was conducted to evaluate the occupational dose for the skin in terms of equivalent doses experienced by anesthesia staff during interventional cardiology procedures in Saudi Arabia. Over a five-year period (2019–2023), thermoluminescent dosimetry (TLD) data were gathered for 175 anesthesia staff members. The TLDs used in this study estimated the skin-dose equivalent at a depth of 0.07 mm, referred to as Hp(0.07). The cohort comprised predominantly technologists, who formed about 72.4% of the participants (with a gender distribution of 55% male and 45% female), while consultants made up the remaining 27.6% (70% male and 30% female). The study's findings on the annual mean Hp(0.07) for all staff from 2019 to 2023 indicated notable fluctuations in radiation exposure over the years. The annual mean Hp(0.07) values showed a range, with the peak at 0.85 mSv in 2020 and the lowest at 0.64 mSv in 2023. A significant increase in the annual mean Hp(0.07) was observed from 0.66 mSv in 2019 to 0.85 mSv in 2020, followed by a slight rise to 0.86 mSv in 2021, and then a decrease to 0.72 mSv in 2022 and further to 0.64 mSv in 2023. These variations were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The overall annual mean Hp(0.07) over the study period was 0.75 ± 0.43 mSv. In terms of gender differences, the overall annual mean Hp(0.07) for male technologists was 0.73 mSv, and for female technologists, it was slightly higher at 0.87 mSv. Among consultants, male consultants had an overall annual mean Hp(0.07) of 0.69 mSv, while female consultants had a lower average of 0.47 mSv. The overall annual mean Hp(0.07) for technologists was 0.8 mSv, significantly higher than that for consultants, which was 0.62 mSv (p-value = 0.015). The gender-based analysis revealed that males had an overall annual mean Hp(0.07) of 0.72 ± 0.38 mSv, while females had a 0.79 ± 0.48 mSv, with no significant statistical difference (p = 0.344). Despite these variations, the annual mean Hp(0.07) values remained below the occupational exposure limit of 500 mSv annually. However, since the relationship between exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation and cancer risk has not yet been fully determined, compliance with radiation safety protocols and personal doses should be periodically assessed in any radiological department to keep radiation exposure to staff ALARA.

Exploring the role of large language models in radiation emergency response

In recent times, the field of artificial intelligence (AI) has been transformed by the introduction of large language models (LLMs). These models, popularized by OpenAI’s GPT-3, have demonstrated the emergent capabilities of AI in comprehending and producing text resembling human language, which has helped them transform several industries. But its role has yet to be explored in the nuclear industry, specifically in managing radiation emergencies. The present work explores LLMs’ contextual awareness, natural language interaction, and their capacity to comprehend diverse queries in a radiation emergency response setting. In this study we identify different user types and their specific LLM use-cases in radiation emergencies. Their possible interactions with ChatGPT, a popular LLM, has also been simulated and preliminary results are presented. Drawing on the insights gained from this exercise and to address concerns of reliability and misinformation, this study advocates for expert guided and domain-specific LLMs trained on radiation safety protocols and historical data. This study aims to guide radiation emergency management practitioners and decision-makers in effectively incorporating LLMs into their decision support framework.

Assessing and improving radiation safety in cardiac catheterization: a study from Cairo University Hospital

BackgroundCatheter laboratories are high-radiation exposure environments, especially during X-ray procedures like percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and electrophysiological studies. Radiation exposure poses risks of stochastic (e.g., cancer) and deterministic (e.g., skin changes) effects. This study assessed radiation safety and health practices in a cardiac catheterization unit to optimize radiation safety. A cross-sectional study in Cairo University Hospital (March–September 2019) evaluated 700 patients and healthcare workers. Real-time radiation measurements, educational lectures, and radiation protection measures were implemented in three phases. Data on radiation exposure, procedures, and compliance were collected and analyzed.ResultsThe total procedure time and fluoroscopy time per cardiologist did not significantly differ between phases, but there was a statistically significant reduction in the mean total cumulative radiation doses between Phase I and Phase III for cardiologists (P = 0.013). Among nurses and technicians, there was no significant difference in radiation doses between the two phases. Significant correlations were found between operators' radiation doses, procedure time, and fluoroscopy time. Patients' radiation doses decreased significantly from Phase I to Phase III, with correlations between dose, procedure time, and gender. Compliance with radiation protection measures was suboptimal.ConclusionsCompliance with radiation safety standards in the cardiac catheterization unit at the Cairo University Hospital needs improvement. The study highlights the importance of adhering to radiation safety principles and optimizing protective measures to reduce radiation exposure for both patients and healthcare personnel. Despite low compliance, significant reductions in radiation doses were achieved with increased awareness and adherence to specific protection measures. Future efforts should focus on enhancing radiation safety protocols and organ-specific radiation impact assessments.

Knowledge, Attitude And Perception About The Effect Of Radiation And Its Safety Protocol Among Dental Students

Dental radiography is indispensable for diagnosing and treating oral conditions, but it carries inherent radiation risks. Dental students must grasp radiation's effects and safety protocols to ensure patient and practitioner safety.

Assessment of Physician Knowledge, Attitude and Safety Practice Towards Radiation Safety

Background: Radiations plays an important role in various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures within health facilities, but its use poses inherent risks to both healthcare professionals and patients. Understanding the knowledge, attitude, and safety practices of physicians in relation to radiation safety is paramount for ensuring the well-being of all stakeholders involved. Physicians, as key decision-makers in medical procedures involving radiation, need to be well-informed about the associated risks and safety measures. Objective: To determine the physician knowledge, attitude and safety practice towards radiation safety. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Settings: Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad Pakistan. Duration: March 2020 to February 2021. Methods: All the physician relevant to exposure to ionizing radiation, such as radiology, nuclear medicine, interventional cardiology, and oncology, having minimum one year or more experience in radiological field of either age and gender were included. Data collection was carried out through a structured questionnaire, specifically designed to evaluate participants' understanding of radiation safety principles, their attitudes towards adherence to safety protocols, and their day-to-day practices in radiological procedures. The collected data was analyzed using appropriate statistical methods SPSS version 26. Results: Majority of participants experience medical radiation exposure less than once per week (42.1%), with a significant portion having exposure more than three times per week (40.8%). 90.8% of participants have never undergone a radiation protection course, despite 73.7% expressing willingness to participate in such a course if provided by their institution. 52.7% strongly disagreed that radiation significantly affects childbearing, while 39.5% believe they are safe within 1 meter of radiation exposure. On a positive note, 86.8% of participants correctly identified the ALARA principle for radiation protection. Regarding the implementation of safety protocols, only 28.9% were more likely to wear a lead apron, and 22.4% never wore it. Conclusion: Health care professionals lacks adequate knowledge, training and attitude regarding radiation safety protocols. Lack of adequate knowledge and training leads to poor utilization of radiation safety equipment and it is a source of health hazard for both medical professionals and the patients.

An assessment of radiation safety practices for transgender and gender non-binary patients in Irish radiology departments

IntroductionStudies indicate there may be inadequate care given to transgender and non-binary (TGNB) patients in healthcare environments, with radiology departments not being equipped to cater for this group. There is currently a deficit in research concerning the use of radiation safety measures for TGNB patients. The purpose of this research was to examine opinions of Irish Radiation Safety Experts (RSE) on current status of radiation safety protocols and techniques in place for TGNB patients and consider any changes necessary. MethodologyTen semi-structured interviews were conducted with RSEs from eight Irish hospitals, including five radiation protection officers (RPO) and five medical physicists. Question included: current radiation safety protocols for TGNB patients, potential issues and challenges with current practice, and recommendations of new measures. Coding was used to facilitate content analysis for interpretation of findings. ResultsNo reference to TGNB patients in local policies or guidelines was evident. Interviews established key radiation safety risks including inadvertent exposure of the foetus and insensitive patient care. Prominent categories identified included additional education, gender identification at patient registration and consideration of current policies and guidelines. The extent to which RSEs promoted the implementation of further measures to radiology departments varied. ConclusionsA clear lack of guidance and instruction for radiation safety for TGNB patients is evident. Whilst there are few TGNB patients in Irish hospitals, participants believed that inclusive changes should be made concurrent with Ireland's evolving culture and in the interest of equality of patient safety. Implications for practiceInclusive changes should be made to radiology departments concurrent with Ireland's evolving culture. However, barriers to implementing such measures include a lack of available resources, investment, and instruction from authoritative bodies.

Radiation dose during interventional cardiology procedures: portable C-arm vs. a new generation fluoroscopy system

IntroductionOccupational exposure to ionizing radiation poses health risks for veterinary interventionalists. There are limited veterinary studies evaluating radiation dose in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. The purpose of this study was to report direct radiation dose exposure to patients during common interventional cardiology procedures and compare these doses between two fluoroscopy units. AnimalsOne hundred and fifty-four client-owned dogs. Materials and MethodsPatient dose during procedures using a portable C-arm were retrospectively analyzed and compared to those performed in a contemporary interventional suite. Fluoroscopy equipment, procedure type, operator, patient weight, fluoroscopy time, dose area product, and air kerma were recorded and statistically modeled using univariable and multivariable linear regression to evaluate the effect of each factor. ResultsPatient dose population (154 dogs), comprised 61 patent ductus arteriosus occlusions, 60 balloon pulmonary valvuloplasties, and 33 pacemaker implantations. Patient dose was significantly lower in the group utilizing a newer generation fluoroscopy unit vs. the group utilizing an older portable C-arm, positively correlated with patient weight, and highest during balloon pulmonary valvuloplasties compared to patent ductus arteriosus occlusions or pacemaker implantations (all P<0.010). DiscussionNewer fluoroscopy systems can be equipped with technologies that improve image quality while reducing patient dose and radiation exposure to interventional personnel. ConclusionsWe documented a significant reduction in patient radiation dose using a newer fluoroscopy system as compared to an older portable C-arm for interventional cardiology procedures in animals. Improved knowledge of patient radiation dose factors may promote better radiation safety protocols in veterinary interventional cardiology.

Panoramic X-ray Radiation Exposure Safety Test at ATRO Muhammadiyah Makassar

Introduction: The radiation safety protocol is an effort made to create conditions so that the dose of ionizing radiation that affects humans and the environment does not exceed the specified limit value. This study aimed to measure exposure to X-ray radiation on panoramic X-rays at ATRO Muhammadiyah Makassar.&#x0D; Methods: This research was conducted at the radiology department of ATRO Muhammadiyah Makassar in December 2022. The tools and materials that will be used in this research are dental X-ray planes, survey meters, and perspex phantom, with a thickness of 10 mm, as a substitute for organs in humans. Measurement of the radiation dose exposure in dental X-ray examinations was carried out using an exposure factor of 70 kV, 8 mA at a distance of 1 meter, 2 meters, 3 meters, and 4 meters from various directions, namely front, left side, right side, and back with time. Different exposure on each object.&#x0D; Results: The highest dose intensity value was found at 0.25 seconds with a distance of 1 meter in the forward direction with a dosing accuracy of 138.4 (µSv/h). The lowest point is at 0.17 seconds with a distance of 3 meters behind with a dosing accuracy of 0.89 (µSv/h) for an officer who is in the radiation field during irradiation.&#x0D; Conclusion: The safe distance for a radiation officer and the general public who must be in the radiation field to assist patients during an examination is 4 meters from the radiation source.

Medical occupational dose to the skin based on Hp(0.07) measured by thermoluminescent dosimeter: A Saudi national study

The most recent investigations of the data on atomic bomb survivors have showed excess relative risk for the incidence of non-melanocytic skin cancer. On the basis of this data, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) proposed an occupational dose limit for skin for occupationally exposed workers (500 mSv), which would provide an adequate protection against radiation risks. This study aimed to estimate the annual occupational dose for skin in terms of equivalent doses for medical workers in diagnostic radiology, interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, dentistry, and operation rooms. In this study, a thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD-100) was used to obtain dose records of 41,180 medical workers for five consecutive years (2015–2019). The TLDs used in this study estimated the skin-dose equivalent at a depth of 0.07 mm, referred to as Hp(0.07). The annual mean Hp(0.07) received by skin averaged over the study period for diagnostic radiology, interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, dentistry, and operation room workers were found to be 0.85 ± 0.63 mSv, 0.88 ± 0.58 mSv, 1.64 ± 0.29 mSv, 0.84 ± 0.35 mSv, 0.81 ± 0.54 mSv, and 0.70 ± 0.44 mSv, respectively. A one-way ANOVA results showed significant differences in annual mean Hp(0.07) among workers (F [5,41174] = 63.69, p = 0.000). Overall, the annual mean Hp(0.07) to the skin was well below the occupational dose limit. Since the relationship between exposure to low-dose ionising radiation and cancer risk has not yet been fully determined, compliance with radiation safety protocols and personal doses should be periodically assessed in any radiological department to keep radiation exposure to staff ALARA.

Gynecological intrauterine brachytherapy training for radiation therapists: The development and implementation of a training program

PURPOSEGynecological brachytherapy (GynBT) is an important part of gynecological cancer management. At Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre (ONJCWRC), Melbourne, Australia, radiation therapists (RTs) are integral to the MRI adaptive GynBT program workflow. However, there is limited GynBT training available for RTs in Australia. A GynBT training program has been developed at ONJCWRC to meet this need and support RTs in becoming competent, proficient and confident in the various roles in GynBT. This is a preliminary report on the development and implementation of a credentialing program, providing a structured approach to GynBT training of RTs. METHODS AND MATERIALSA credentialing program was designed with modules and competency assessments to ensure efficiency and proficiency of RTs in the GynBT workflow. The program includes theoretical modules in anatomy, international GynBT guidelines, radiation safety and local protocols; and practical modules in equipment, ultrasound for GynBT, operating theatre procedures, MRI, contouring, applicator reconstruction, planning, quality assurance and treatment delivery. Learning strategies include self-directed learning, tutorials, practical sessions, and third-party courses. The program concludes with an exit examination assessing major competencies. RESULTSThe program was implemented in April 2018 with three RTs completing the program and passing the exit examination on first attempt. On post-program survey, the RTs felt the program was comprehensive, helping to build their confidence, and proficiency in GynBT. CONCLUSIONSA GynBT RT credentialing program was successfully developed and implemented to improve the quality of training at ONJCWRC. This program is mandatory for RTs joining the GynBT team. This program can provide a framework for implementation of GynBT training in other centers.