An Examination of Nurses' Awareness of and Compliance with Radiation Safety Measures in Kaduna State University Teaching Hospital
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Background of the Study
Radiation exposure in healthcare settings is a significant occupational hazard, particularly for nurses working in radiology, oncology, and interventional procedures involving imaging technology. Ionizing radiation, if not properly managed, can lead to severe health consequences such as radiation burns, genetic mutations, and an increased risk of cancer (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) has established guidelines on radiation protection, emphasizing the importance of minimizing exposure through the principles of justification, optimization, and dose limitation (ICRP, 2023).
Nurses working in radiology and other departments where radiation is used must be aware of and comply with safety protocols to protect themselves and patients. These include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lead aprons, thyroid shields, and dosimeters, as well as adherence to distance and shielding principles to minimize exposure (Okafor & Yusuf, 2023). Despite established safety guidelines, research suggests that many healthcare workers do not fully adhere to radiation safety measures due to a lack of awareness, inadequate training, or workplace constraints (Eze et al., 2024).
In Kaduna State University Teaching Hospital (KSUTH), the level of nurses' awareness of radiation hazards and their compliance with safety measures remains largely unexplored. This study seeks to examine nurses' knowledge of radiation safety protocols, their compliance with standard procedures, and factors that may influence adherence.
Statement of the Problem
Radiation exposure poses significant health risks to nurses, yet compliance with safety protocols is often suboptimal. Studies indicate that poor awareness, lack of proper training, and unavailability of protective equipment contribute to increased occupational exposure among healthcare workers (Ogunyemi & Ibrahim, 2023). Inadequate compliance with radiation safety measures can result in long-term health issues, including increased susceptibility to radiation-induced illnesses.
At KSUTH, there is limited empirical data on nurses' awareness and adherence to radiation safety protocols. Without a proper understanding of safety guidelines, nurses may unknowingly put themselves and patients at risk. This study aims to evaluate nurses' awareness of radiation safety and their compliance with established safety measures, identifying gaps and recommending improvements to ensure occupational safety.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess nurses' awareness of radiation hazards and safety measures at KSUTH.
- To evaluate nurses' compliance with standard radiation protection protocols.
- To identify factors influencing nurses' adherence to radiation safety measures.
Research Questions
- What is the level of nurses' awareness of radiation safety measures at KSUTH?
- To what extent do nurses comply with radiation protection protocols?
- What factors influence nurses' compliance with radiation safety measures?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses at KSUTH have adequate awareness of radiation safety measures.
- Nurses at KSUTH strictly adhere to radiation protection protocols.
- Various factors, including lack of training and resource constraints, impact nurses' compliance with radiation safety measures.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in radiology, oncology, surgical, and diagnostic imaging departments at KSUTH. Data collection will involve surveys, observational assessments, and interviews. Limitations may include self-reported bias and variability in adherence to safety measures across different departments.
Definitions of Terms
- Radiation Safety Measures: Protocols designed to minimize occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in healthcare settings.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Protective gear such as lead aprons, thyroid shields, and dosimeters used to reduce radiation exposure.
- Ionizing Radiation: High-energy radiation that can remove electrons from atoms, potentially causing cellular damage.
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