Assessment of Radiation Protection Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) Among Interventional Radiology Professionals

Main Article Content

Essam Mohammed Aljubran, Hamoud Rashed Aldaheam, Badar Sulaiman Alkhunaizan, Abdullah Hussain Alzahrani, Ahmed Abdulkhaleq Alzahrani, Abeer Abdulrahman Albori, Abdullah Deer Albugami, Ahmed Mohammed Alasmari, Mohammed Ramadan Aldhafeeri

Keywords

Knowledge, Attitude, Radiation Protection, Interventional Radiology

Abstract

The prevalence of cardiac disease and associated mortality rates have led to increased cardiac imaging, potentially exposing interventional cardiologists to high radiation doses. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of radiation protection (RP) among interventional radiology professionals in healthcare centers.


Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated questionnaire with 30 multiple-choice questions. Participants included healthcare personnel working with radiation, such as secretaries, radiology technologists, nurses, and physicians. The questionnaire assessed KAP regarding RP and was divided into three sections.


Results: Significant differences were observed in RP KAP mean scores based on educational age (p < 0.050). However, there were no significant differences in RP KAP mean scores based on sex, practice age, or hospital type (p > 0.050). Furthermore, a significant difference was found in RP KAP mean scores across different geographical regions (p < 0.050).


Conclusions: Educational and practice age, sex, hospital type, and geographic region influence the KAP of interventional radiology staff regarding RP. Given the potential radiation hazards for both medical personnel and patients, proactive measures are crucial. Regular check-ups, diverse educational samples from various regions, continuous training, and practical courses can improve RP awareness. The findings can inform health physics officers to develop strategic plans for enhancing radiation protection services in interventional radiology departments.

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