REFERRING PHYSICIANS’ KNOWLEDGE OF THE RADIATION DOSES FOR COMMONLY RADIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS IN NASIRIYA TURKISH HOSPITAL

Abstract

The aim: To assess the referring physicians’ knowledge of the radiation doses for commonly radiological investigations in Nasiriya Turkish Hospital (NTH). Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study of referring physicians in NTH was carried out. A two-part questionnaire was distributed to all Referring Physicians’ apart from radiologists. Radiological examinations were listed and Referring Physicians’ were asked to estimate equivalent doses using the dose of postero-anterior chest X-Ray as a reference. Questions on knowledge of radiation (including radiation exposure and doses, protection, maximizing effectiveness, impacts of ionizing radiation) and utilization of referral guidelines were included. Results: A total of 50 were distributed to the participants, 32 were returned and deemed acceptable for inclusion in this study. The participants’ demographic data shows that most are male 21 (65.6%), while 11 (34.4%) are female. Up to 23 (71.9%) of participants had knowledge of ionizing radiation, but only 7 (21.9%) physicians were aware of its unit measurement. Most participants were unable to accurately estimate the radiation dose absorbed by patients during the various radiological examinations; 68.8% had no knowledge of radiations’ stochastic and non-stochastic impacts; 14 (43.7%) were aware of the referral guidelines and used them. The majority of the participants 24 (75%) are aware that USS is safe for pregnant women. only 1(3%) physician knew that there is no ionizing radiation involved in MRI. Conclusion: Most participants did not able to accurately estimate the radiation dose absorbed by patients during the various radiological examinations.