Evaluation of Awareness of Radiation Protection Among Medical Professionals in Faridpur, Bangladesh
Background: Several challenges with radiation protection and safety culture in radiology departments needs to be addressed as few studies done in this aspect in our country. Especially with regard to the awareness about radiation protection, hazards, dosimetry usage and measurement. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the awareness of radiation protection issues and the knowledge of dose levels of imaging procedures among medical staff in Department of Radiology and imaging, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical College (BSMMC), Faridpur, Bangladesh. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey among the medical professionals who work in Department of Radiology and imaging, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical College (BSMMC), Faridpur, Bangladesh was conducted from June 2021 to July 2022. Result: A total of 113 medical staff (including 27 physician, 28 nurse, 31 medical technician and 27 resident physician) were provided a questionnaire consisting of 22 multiple-choice questions divided into three parts (i.e., demographic data, awareness about radiation protection issues, and knowledge about radiation dose levels of common radiological examinations). Results showed that, physicians and medical technicians revealed the highest level of knowledge regarding radiation protection principles and dose levels. Medical staff working in radiology departments claimed to have the best knowledge of radiation protection issues more frequently compared to participants in other departments. Conclusion: The level of knowledge among the individuals who participate in the operation of ionizing radiation equipment throughout the country is low. The benefit of training in the use of the C-arm image intensifier is highlighted by the revelation that the individuals who had formal training in the use of these machines performed better than those individuals without training. Annual recertification courses should be implemented such that individuals are kept abreast with current changes and reminded of commonly neglected safety practices