Surgical Resident Radiation Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Exposures

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Occupational Health
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Ionizing radiation exposure is a concern in healthcare settings.
• Surgical residents may face unique occupational radiation risks.
• Limited data exists on radiation exposure levels for surgical trainees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify ionizing radiation exposure among surgical residents.
• To assess surgical residents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding radiation safety.
• To identify factors influencing radiation exposure during surgical rotations.

Main Methods:

• Observational study utilizing film badge dosimeters for radiation monitoring.
• Cross-sectional electronic survey to evaluate resident knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
• Data collected from surgical residents at a Midwest community teaching hospital.

Main Results:

• Surgical residents had detectable radiation exposures above null values during common rotations (general surgery, night float).
• Vascular and trauma rotations showed episodic high radiation exposures, but all remained below occupational thresholds.
• Resident knowledge of radiation safety was 62% correct; precaution use was inconsistent, indicating a need for improved education and adherence.

Conclusions:

• Surgical residents experience measurable ionizing radiation exposure, necessitating safety interventions.
• While not exceeding occupational limits, detectable exposures warrant attention due to stochastic and dose-response effects.
• Improved radiation safety education and consistent adherence to precautions are crucial for surgical residents.