Occupational radiation exposure to the head is higher for scrub nurses than cardiologists during cardiac angiography

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Sciences
• Cardiovascular Technology

Background:

• Occupational radiation exposure is a significant concern for healthcare professionals in interventional cardiology.
• Limited research exists on the specific head and eye radiation doses received by nurses during fluoroscopic procedures.
• Understanding dose distribution is crucial for implementing effective radiation protection strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the occupational head radiation dose received by cardiologists versus scrub and scout nurses during cardiac angiography.
• To quantify the differences in radiation exposure between these roles in diagnostic and interventional procedures.
• To identify factors influencing radiation dose to nursing staff.

Main Methods:

• A correlational longitudinal quantitative design was employed.
• Data from 612 coronary angiograms performed between May 2015 and February 2017 were analyzed.
• Log-transformed dose levels were analyzed, reported as geometric means with 95% confidence intervals.

Main Results:

• Scrub nurses received 41% higher head doses than cardiologists during diagnostic procedures.
• During interventional cases, scrub nurses experienced 52% higher head doses compared to cardiologists.
• Radial artery access was associated with higher doses to scrub nurses than femoral artery access.

Conclusions:

• Nurses in fluoroscopic cardiovascular procedures face higher occupational head radiation doses than cardiologists.
• There is a critical need for improved radiation protection for nurses, including lead skull caps and protective eyewear.
• Implementing appropriate shielding and training is essential to minimize long-term health risks from ionizing radiation exposure.