The Effect of Nurses' Knowledge of Radiation Safety on Patient Protection in Radiology Departments at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital

The Effect of Nurses' Knowledge of Radiation Safety on Patient Protection in Radiology Departments at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital

Background of the Study

Radiation exposure in healthcare settings, particularly in radiology departments, poses significant risks to both patients and healthcare workers. X-rays, CT scans, and other radiological procedures are essential diagnostic tools, but improper handling or excessive exposure to ionizing radiation can lead to serious health consequences, including cancer and tissue damage (Smith et al., 2024). Therefore, ensuring that healthcare professionals are adequately trained in radiation safety is critical for minimizing these risks.

Nurses working in radiology departments are responsible for preparing patients for procedures, assisting with positioning, and ensuring safety measures are followed. Their knowledge of radiation safety, including understanding the principles of radiation protection (such as the ALARA principle—As Low As Reasonably Achievable), is essential to prevent unnecessary exposure. Nurses also play a role in educating patients about the risks of radiation and ensuring that appropriate shielding and precautions are in place during imaging procedures (Jones et al., 2023).

At Kogi State University Teaching Hospital, the radiology department serves a large patient population, and radiological procedures are routinely performed. However, limited research has been conducted on the level of knowledge that nurses possess regarding radiation safety in this setting. Investigating nurses' knowledge of radiation safety and its impact on patient protection is necessary to ensure that safety protocols are followed and patients are protected from unnecessary harm.

Statement of the Problem

Despite the critical role that nurses play in ensuring radiation safety, there is limited data on their level of knowledge regarding radiation protection protocols at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital. Preliminary observations suggest that knowledge gaps or inconsistent adherence to radiation safety guidelines may increase the risk of patient exposure to harmful radiation. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge of nurses regarding radiation safety practices in the radiology department and assess their impact on patient protection.

Objectives of the Study

1. To assess nurses' knowledge of radiation safety protocols in the radiology department at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital.
2. To evaluate the implementation of radiation safety practices by nurses in protecting patients during radiological procedures.
3. To identify the barriers to effective radiation safety practices in the radiology department as perceived by nurses.

Research Questions

1. What is the level of knowledge among nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital regarding radiation safety protocols?
2. To what extent do nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital implement radiation safety practices during radiological procedures?
3. What barriers affect nurses' ability to implement effective radiation safety practices in the radiology department?

Research Hypotheses

1. Nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital have adequate knowledge of radiation safety protocols.
2. Nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital implement effective radiation safety practices to protect patients during radiological procedures.
3. There are significant barriers affecting the implementation of radiation safety practices in the radiology department.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study will focus on nurses working in the radiology department at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital. The scope will include assessing their knowledge of radiation safety protocols and their practices in ensuring patient protection. Limitations may include potential biases in self-reported data and the exclusion of other healthcare workers, such as radiologists or technicians, involved in radiation safety.

Definitions of Terms

• Radiation Safety: Protocols and practices aimed at minimizing exposure to ionizing radiation in healthcare settings to protect both patients and healthcare workers.
• Knowledge: The understanding that nurses possess regarding radiation safety, including the risks of radiation exposure and appropriate safety measures.
• Patient Protection: The implementation of measures such as proper shielding, minimizing exposure time, and following safety protocols to protect patients from unnecessary radiation.
• Barriers: Factors such as insufficient training, lack of resources, or non-adherence to safety protocols that hinder the effective implementation of radiation safety measures.

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Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study