Knowledge levels and awareness of healthcare professionals on protection from chemical, biological, radiation, nuclear hazards, and emergency aid practices

Abstract

Purpose: The accidental or intentional release of CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) substances into the environment causes significant loss of life and property and has adverse effects over a long time. This study was planned to raise awareness about protection from CBRN hazards and emergency aid practices, to create CBRN awareness, and to determine the knowledge level of healthcare professionals. Materials and methods: After reviewing the literature and regulations, the questionnaire was prepared based on the training module on "Emergency Assistance in Chemical, Biological, Radiation, and Nuclear Hazards" for Emergency Health Services published by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of National Education. The questionnaire was asked to participants before and after 10 hours of theoretical CBRN training, and the results were compared. Results: The participants were 58.4% female, 41.6% male, and the average age was 38. Most participants were doctors or nurses, and approximately three-quarters of the participants were emergency service staff. 35.6% of them had been working in the emergency department for 1-5 years. 61.4% had not received CBRN training, and 84.2% thought they needed sufficient knowledge and experience. 77.2% had not experienced any CBRN incident nor performed any intervention for CBRN. When the 22 questions asked about the level of CBRN knowledge were evaluated, it was seen that the correct answer rate was above 50% in seven questions of 22 and was above 50% in all questions in the post-test applied after the training. Their level of knowledge was found to be low before CBRN training and good after training. Conclusion: Theoretical training has a significant positive impact on creating CBRN awareness.