Radiation Safety Awareness among Radiation Workers and Clientele At Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.

Abstract

Background: All x-ray utilization in human medicine leads to exposure of the patient and personnel to radiation. Although the quantity is low in diagnostic examinations, special attention should be given to this fact in order to minimize unnecessary exposure for both groups. Exposure
to ionizing radiation cannot be avoided in a medical imaging facility. Twenty-two radiation workers and fifty patients responded. The main objective of the study was to determine the level of radiation safety awareness among radiation workers (Personnel) and clientele at Mulago hospital.

Methods: Subjects were interviewed using two different questionnaires each one tailored to the radiation workers and the patient (clientele). Fifty patients and twenty-two radiation workers responded. Their views were assessed using structured questionnaires. The data was analysed
using SSPS package.

Results: Fifteen (68.2%) reported that they had had a sensitization introduction about radiation safety before they started working with radiation. . 18 (81.8%) thought that the radiation safety
measures taken at the work place were inadequate. It was noted that radiation workers were well informed about radiation safety, but that the patients expressed ignorance on the subject and many were convinced that x-rays were dangerous.

Conclusion: There is need for sensitization of the public on radiation safety and to allay their fears about radiation. The radiation workers should do this before patients are worked on. This requires good communication skills on the part of the radiation workers. There is also need for radiation workers to have introductory seminars on radiation safety before they start working with radiation. They also need continuous education and update on radiation safety