The compliance with radiation protection and knowledge about radiation exposure among the orthopedic operating room personnel in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: There is a rapid advancement in surgical techniques requiring real-time visualization and intraoperative X-ray utilization, leading to a higher radiation exposure among operating room (OR) staff. Taking preventive measures and reducing the unnecessary radiation exposure for the patient and the OR staff is essential. The study aimed to assess the compliance with using radiation protection equipment, as well as assessing the level of knowledge about radiation exposure among the orthopedic OR staff. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted in Saudi Arabia. A 19-Item questionnaire that was developed and validated by Jentzsch et al. was sent to the emails of all the registered members of the Saudi Orthopedic Association, orthopedic physicians, OR nurses, and radiology technicians were included in the study. A Correlation procedure was performed to determine the relationship between knowledge and compliance scores. Results: We recruited 242 orthopedic OR personnel, 110 (45.5%) showed good knowledge and 120 (49.5%) showed good compliance. Lead apron was the most commonly used equipment, lead goggles use was the least. Females, radiology technicians, and sports and/or arthroplasty surgeons showed better compliance scores. Conclusion: The study reveals inadequate knowledge and compliance among OR staff regarding radiation protection. Therefore, we recommend providing training programs to minimize radiation hazards.

Assessment of Physicians’ Knowledge and Awareness About the Hazards of Radiological Examinations on the Health of Their Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

“…The results varied between different specialties. Radiologists had the best knowledge regarding the hazards of radiation followed by pediatricians, while orthopedists had the least knowledge which was consistent with the literature [21]. Radiologists also scored the highest in attitude.…”

Physician knowledge of radiation exposure and risk in medical imaging in Al-Qunfudha region

“…Radiologists had the best knowledge regarding the hazards of radiation followed by pediatricians, while orthopedists had the least knowledge in previous studies (Hamarsheh and Ahmead, 2012;Almalki et al, 2021). Good knowledge among the participants of the present study was significantly higher among those having > 5 years of experience.…”