A multicentre survey of knowledge and implementation of radiation protection techniques in cardiac cath-lab medical personnel

Abstract

Background Awareness of radiation hazards and methods to reduce radiation dose is a sine qua non for all staff working in the cath-lab for their own safety and their patient’s safety. Results There were large variations in the implementation of radiation protection techniques with overall inadequate radiation risk knowledge. Some members of the cath-lab team are at higher risk of radiation-induced side effects, including the fellows, nurses, technicians, and anaesthesiologists because they spent longer time in the cath-lab and/or their position in relation to the source of radiation. About 10% of the participants have reported different health problems potentially induced by radiation exposure. Conclusions There is lack of radiation risks knowledge with inadequate radiation protection practice among cath-lab team. Some members such as fellows, nurse, technicians, and cardiac anaesthesiologist are at higher risks. They represent the forgotten members of the Cath-Lab team.