Enhancing Radiation Safety Practices and Patient Awareness in Rural Healthcare Facilities in Enugu State, South East Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Public Health Study

Vollständiger Abstract

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Medical imaging utilizing ionizing radiation has significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and patient management in modern healthcare. However, inadequate radiation safety practices and poor patient awareness remain critical challenges, particularly in rural healthcare settings in developing countries. This study assessed radiation safety practices among healthcare workers and patient awareness regarding diagnostic radiation exposure in rural healthcare facilities in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 healthcare workers and 200 patients across selected rural healthcare facilities in Enugu State. Data were collected using two validated structured questionnaires assessing knowledge, attitudes, practices, and awareness regarding radiation safety. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 27.0, with descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression applied. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Among healthcare workers, only 38.0% demonstrated adequate knowledge of ionizing radiation and its biological effects. Compliance with radiation safety practices was suboptimal, with 46.0% reporting consistent use of personal protective equipment. Previous radiation safety training was significantly associated with better knowledge and practices (p < 0.001). Among patients, only 32.0% demonstrated adequate awareness of radiation risks associated with diagnostic imaging. Educational level was significantly associated with awareness (p < 0.001). Major barriers to optimal radiation safety included inadequate equipment maintenance, insufficient staff training, and poor regulatory enforcement. Radiation safety practices and patient awareness remain significantly inadequate in rural healthcare facilities in Enugu State. Urgent interventions, including regular staff training, enhanced regulatory oversight, equipment quality assurance programs, and structured patient education initiatives, are recommended to improve radiation protection standards.