Knowledge of radiation protection among radiology professionals and students: A medical college-based study

Radiation protection is the core of radiography for safe radiation-based imaging practice. This study aims to determine the knowledge of radiation protection among radiology professionals and students in a medical college of Nepal.

A questionnaire survey was carried out among 35 radiology staff and students at Universal College of Medical Sciences (UCMS), Bhairahawa, Nepal. The questionnaire survey consisted of socio-demographic variables and 17 questions, 3 questions were related to general information regarding training, knowledge, and experience and the remaining 14 multiple choice questions (MCQ) were related to radiation protection. Data were analyzed in SPSS Statistics software, version 27. The p-value was set at 5% level of significance. Nonparametric tests were applied since the data did not follow normal distribution. The knowledge score were categorized into lesser than 60 % inadequate, 60-80 % adequate and greater than or equal to 80 % excellent.

Out of total 35 participants, 28 were male and 7 were female with mean age 26.09 ± 7.18 years, range 18-54. The average radiation level of awareness was 9.6 (68.57 %), which was adequate, maximum 13 and minimum 4. There was not statistical significance of knowledge score by gender, age groups, work experience and studentship. Taking academic qualification, the level of knowledge of diploma graduates was inadequate 7.76 (55.42 %), and lower than other higher academic qualifications.

Adequate radiation protection course materials and training should be introduced for diploma graduates. Continuing professional education (CME) should be organized regularly. Moreover, radiation protection law is a must in Nepal now.