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Radiation safety knowledge and practices among Irish orthopaedic trainees

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Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -) Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Introduction

Fluoroscopy is frequently used in orthopaedic surgery, particularly in a trauma setting. Exposure of patients and staff to ionising radiation has been studied extensively; however, little work has been done to evaluate current knowledge and practices among orthopaedic trainees.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and practices of Irish orthopaedic trainees regarding use of ionising radiation.

Methods

A confidential internet-based survey on workplace radiation safety practices was distributed via email to 40 higher specialist trainees. Questions included related to radiation safety training and regular work practices.

Results

A total of 26 trainees completed the questionnaire (65 % response rate). All reported regular exposure to ionising radiation. Compliance with body shields was high (25, 96 %), however, other protective measures such as thyroid shields were less frequently employed. The ‘as low as reasonably achievable principle’ was practised regularly by 14 (54 %). Radiation safety training was variable—while just over half (14) respondents felt adequately trained in radiation safety, 17 (65 %) had attended a radiation protection course. Use of dosimeters was particularly poor, with only 4 (15 %) using them regularly and most citing lack of availability as the main barrier.

Conclusion

Although most Irish orthopaedic trainees have some knowledge regarding radiation safety, many do not regularly use all available measures to reduce exposure to ionising radiation. Barriers to use of protective mechanisms include lack of availability and perceived impracticality.

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Conflict of interest

Dr. Nugent has nothing to disclose.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital, Finglas, Dublin 11, Ireland

    M. Nugent, O. Carmody & S. Dudeney

Authors
  1. M. Nugent
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  2. O. Carmody
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  3. S. Dudeney
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to M. Nugent.

Appendix 1: Questionnaire distributed to trauma and orthopaedic higher surgical trainees

Appendix 1: Questionnaire distributed to trauma and orthopaedic higher surgical trainees

  1. 1.

    Level of training

    1. a.

      SpR year 1

    2. b.

      SpR year 2

    3. c.

      SpR year 3

    4. d.

      SpR year 4

    5. e.

      SpR year 5

    6. f.

      SpR year 6

  2. 2.

    What source(s) of education on occupational radiation safety have you accessed? (tick all that apply)

    1. a.

      Radiation protection course

    2. b.

      Discussion with/lecture by someone with training in radiation safety

    3. c.

      Discussion with colleagues

    4. d.

      Medical school (undergraduate)

    5. e.

      Books or journal articles

    6. f.

      Internet

    7. g.

      None

    8. h.

      Other (please describe)

  3. 3.

    Do you think that you have received adequate training on radiation safety?

    1. a.

      Yes

    2. b.

      No

    3. c.

      Don’t know

  4. 4.

    Are you aware of the ALARA (‘as low as reasonably achievable’) principle?

    1. a.

      Yes

    2. b.

      No

  5. 5.

    Do you apply the ALARA principle in daily practice?

    1. a.

      Yes

    2. b.

      No

    3. c.

      Sometimes

  6. 6.

    When operating during a case that will involve radiation exposure, how often do you utilize each of the following protective mechanisms?

    1. a.

      Body lead (aprons)

    2. b.

      Thyroid shields

    3. c.

      Dosimeter

    4. d.

      Increasing source distance

    5. e.

      Minimal fluoroscopic time

  7. 7.

    Of the above items, if you did not utilize them most of the time, what was the main reason?

    1. a.

      Unavailable

    2. b.

      Uncomfortable

    3. c.

      Forgot

    4. d.

      Did not know it was an option

    5. e.

      Did not care

    6. f.

      Other (please clarify)

    7. g.

      Not applicable (I use/do this >95 % of the time)

  8. 8.

    When was the last time your dosimeter was checked?

    1. a.

      Within 1 month

    2. b.

      Within 3 months

    3. c.

      Within 6 months

    4. d.

      Within 1 year

    5. e.

      >1 year ago

    6. f.

      Never

    7. g.

      Don’t know

    8. h.

      I do not have a dosimeter

  9. 9.

    What is the maximum acceptable annual dose of whole body radiation exposure for a healthcare professional?

  10. 10.

    Do you think pregnant trainees require any further steps to minimize exposure? (please specify)

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Nugent, M., Carmody, O. & Dudeney, S. Radiation safety knowledge and practices among Irish orthopaedic trainees. Ir J Med Sci 184, 369–373 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-014-1121-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-014-1121-4

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