Radiation knowledge among radiographers and radiography students

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the knowledge of radiation among radiographers and radiography students in NepalMethods A validated questionnaire was conducted among radiographers and radiography students in 24th annual meeting and workshop of Nepal Radiological Society (NRS) on 10th September, 2015. The survey included multiple choice questions (MCQs) related to demographic characteristics (age, gender), academic qualification, work experience and knowledge of radiation. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 21.0.Results Of total 102 respondents, 68.6% (70) were students and 31.4% (32) were radiographers. There were 65 male and 37 female with age ranging from 18 to 45, mean 23.70±5.11 years. Out of 14 MCQs related to knowledge of radiation, maximum score was 14 and minimum 5 with mean 9.99±1.94 (mean percentage 71.35%) (radiographers 10.63±2.10, 75.89% and students 9.70±1.80, 69.28%) respectively. Most participants failed in questions related to radiation units, minimum safe distance during portable radiography, fluoroscopy, and cancer risk of chest radiograph.Conclusion Overall awareness and knowledge of radiation was satisfying with definite possibilities for further improvement through regular trainings, workshops and continuing medical education (CME) programs related to radiation protection and safety. Furthermore, it is an urgent requirement of national radiation protection act in Nepal