Assessment of Radiation Safety Knowledge among House Staff Exposed to Fluoroscopic Radiation

Urologists are increasingly exposed to fluoroscopy as minimally invasive techniques continue to proliferate. Fluoroscopy, or electromagnetic radiation, can cause cellular damage. Appropriate knowledge of safety precautions for fluoroscopy are necessary and ideally should be taught to physicians in training.

A 20-question survey was created to assess radiation safety training, knowledge, behavior and attitudes. The survey was sent via REDCap™ to house staff routinely involved in fluoroscopic cases, including urology, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, radiology, general surgery, anesthesia, plastic surgery, cardiology, vascular surgery, and gastroenterology residents and fellows.

Of 218 participants 61 (28%) responded during the 3-week study period. Overall 57% reported learning fluoroscopic radiation safety informally, with 28% receiving informal as well as formal education. Concerning directional x-ray travel and exposure only 20% answered correctly. In terms of conditions potentially related to radiation exposure 86% selected infertility, 87% cataracts, 87% leukemia and lymphoma, 59% central nervous system tumors and 71% birth defects. Twenty percent wear lead lined glasses, 23% dosimeters, 92% thyroid shields, 2% lead gloves, 92% lead apron, 48% lead shield and 1.6% nothing. Of the respondents 49% were unsure if the machine was set to continuous or pulse. Ninety-eight percent knew decreasing time and 100% knew wearing protective materials were ways to decrease exposure. However, concerning distance and exposure only 56% answered correctly. The majority of respondents believe radiation safety is important and would like more formal education.

Fluoroscopic radiation safety knowledge is low among house staff routinely exposed to fluoroscopy. Further study and likely increased formal education are warranted.