The work process in radiological nursing: Invisibility of ionizing radiation

Abstract

Qualitative descriptive and exploratory research, performed with 20 nursing professionals working in a general radiology unit and surgery center with the “C-arm” equipment, and the hemodynamics unit of a southern Brazilian teaching hospital. Aim was to analyze the dimensions of the work process for radiological technology nurse professionals. This paper made clear that radiological technologies are outside nursing, which leads to the invisibility of ionizing radiation, leading to inappropriate attitudes about radiological protection, which can be related to harm in professionals, caused by lack of knowledge about this issue. Among radiological nursing work process dimensions, the care dimension emerged. The necessity of implementing a continuous educational program in services which utilize radiological technologies was emphasized, thereby promoting, for patients and for nursing professionals, safer environments and integral care.