Project Materials

KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF RADIATION EXPOSURE AND SAFETY PRACTICE AMONG PATIENTS UNDERGOING MEDICAL IMAGING IN 3 SELECTED HOSPITALS IN THE F.C.T

Chapter one

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

In modern medicine, X-rays are increasingly being used to diagnose damage and illness using imaging modalities such as Computed Tomography (CT scans) and mammography.

The biological effects of ionising radiations are of importance here, as research suggests that medical radiation use has negative consequences (Hendee and Edwards, 1996).

According to neuroradiologist Mark Pfleger, patients and the community must understand the safe use of radiation and take an active role in their own treatment.

According to Quinn et al. (1997), Bushberg et al. (2003), and Kiguli-Malwandde et al. (2006), radiographers and clients are unaware of radiation doses, and there is a lack of communication between radiographers and patients on radiation and its potential effects.

Using X-rays in human medicine exposes both the patient and the radiographer. Although the radiation dose in diagnostic exams is modest, care is normally taken to limit needless exposure for members of the public and occupational workers.

In medical imaging facilities, ionising radiation exposure is unavoidable. Radiation exposure over an extended period of time (years) results in stochastic effects (NCRPM, 1980).

There is no safe amount of radiation exposure below which cancer or genetic damage cannot occur. Doubling the radiation exposure increases the likelihood of developing cancer or experiencing a genetic consequence (Kondo, 1993).

To prevent accidental exposures to any part of the body, personnel must be adequately trained, non-radiation workers in the vicinity of radiation sources must be educated (Belyakov et al., 2001), radiation exposures must be monitored and controlled, warning signs must be posted, and radioactive waste must be disposed of correctly.

Radiation protection is the science and art of shielding humans and the environment from the negative effects of ionising radiation.

It is also defined as all activities aimed at reducing radiation exposure of patients and personnel during x-ray procedures. More recent studies in emerging countries suggest that around 3.6 billion imaging investigations are performed worldwide each year, resulting in a 70% rise in the global collective effective dosage for medical diagnostic procedures.

Recent investigations have raised concerns that referring clinicians are unaware of the radiation doses encountered during diagnostic radiological procedures. Such information may be especially relevant as imaging technology advances.

All radiology field workers need proper monitoring, as well as protective tools and equipment. They must also acquire education and training related to their jobs.