Radiation awareness among nurses in nuclear medicine departments

Objective The aim of this study is to explore the awareness level of radiation risks among nurses working in nuclear medicine departments (NMDs). Design A cross-sectional survey was used. Data were collected between February and March 2011. The data were collected using a self-administered, structured questionnaires. One open-ended question was added at the end of the questionnaire. Setting The study was conducted in NMDs representing five Kuwaiti governmental general and specialised hospitals and centres. Subjects This study comprised twenty one non-Kuwaiti female nurses who worked in NMDs. Results Nearly all of the nurses did not attend any radiation protection courses, they were not aware of the ALARA principle and they were not familiar with Geiger-Mueller counter. Most of these nurses were not able to read the dosimetry reports and they were not familiar with the terms RSO, RSC, and the 10 day rule concept. Conclusion Nearly all nurses working in NMDs in Kuwait are not aware of radiation protection and risks. This lack of awareness has serious implications on both patients and nurses. Courses on radiation risks and protection should be provided to nurses during and after their formal nursing education.