Radiation Protection Practices Among Medical Students at Two United Kingdom Medical Schools

Background Orthopaedic surgery frequently involves the use of intraoperative fluoroscopy, exposing operating theatre personnel to ionising radiation. Medical students often attend orthopaedic procedures during their clinical training, yet their education on radiation safety and access to appropriate protective equipment remain poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate radiation safety among medical students during surgical placements, focusing on educational exposure, practical radiation protection practices, and perceived safety. Methodology A multicentre, cross-sectional, questionnaire study was conducted mainly among UK medical students from two medical schools in clinical years (n = 70). A structured nine-item questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms over a 10-day period in December 2023. Participants were recruited through university WhatsApp groups. Participation was voluntary and anonymous, and completion of the questionnaire was taken as implied informed consent. Results A total of 70 medical students completed the survey (44% female, 30% male, 26% preferred not to say). Only 50% reported wearing an appropriately fitting lead apron, while 41% reported inadequate fit. Consistent use of a thyroid shield was reported by 41% of respondents, whereas 49% reported not wearing one. Formal radiation safety teaching before orthopaedic theatre attendance had been received by only 16% of participants. One-third (33%) reported feeling unsafe in operating theatres where ionising radiation was used. Conclusions The medical students surveyed who attended the theatre where ionising radiation was used demonstrated important gaps in radiation safety education and inconsistent use of appropriate protective equipment. Introducing structured radiation safety teaching before theatre exposure and ensuring access to correctly fitted protective equipment may improve student safety, confidence, and preparedness in the operating theatre.