Knowledge, attitude, and perception of dental undergraduates and interns on radiographic protection in Iraq

Abstract

Background: Radiation hazards are harmful and precarious, especially considering professional negligence or ignorance. Objectives: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) of undergraduate dental students and interns toward radiation protection protocols. Design: This study is institutional based. Materials and method: The study participants comprised 255 dental undergraduate students and interns, whose curriculum includes dental radiology. Information was collected from each participant through structured questionnaires (18 questions) containing answers in the form of multiple choices. Statistical analysis, frequency distribution and percentage were determined, and chi-square test was performed to evaluate the statistical significance. Results: Among the 255 samples enrolled in the study, 75 were interns and 180 were undergraduates (85 and 95 from third and fourth years, respectively). The overall correct response was 79%, which in descending order was interns (92%) > fourth-year students (86%) > third-year students (60%). Conclusion: The KAP level with regard to radiation protection protocol was highest with interns and the least with the third-year students. This outcome necessitates incessant teaching to ensure maximum safety.