Knowledge of radiation protection among dental students in a medical college, Nepal

• Published in: Journal of medical imaging and radiation sciences Vol. 53; no. 4; pp. S35 - S36
• Main Authors: Chhetri, KR, Singh, S, Dangal, A, Sah, S, Shrestha, S, Maharjan, S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01.12.2022
• Subjects: dental students; knowledge; Nepal; Radiation protection; dental students; Radiation protection; Nepal; knowledge
• ISSN: 1939-8654; 1876-7982
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2022.10.117

Radiation protection is the core of radiography to provide optimal patient safety and to control radiation hazard. In this study, we aim to determine the knowledge of radiation protection among dental students in a medical college, Nepal Bachelor's degree dental final year students studying at Gandaki Medical College Teaching Hospital and Research Center (GMCTHRC), Pokhara, Nepal were included in this study. A questionnaire survey tool was developed by consulting with two lecturers of medical imaging technology having more than 10 years of experience. 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) were handed to each participant. Each correct answer was given “1” score and each incorrect answer was given “0” score. There were no negative markings. The knowledge score was categorized as <60 % inadequate, 60–80 % adequate and 80–100% excellent. Data were coded and analyzed in IBM SPSS statistics, version 28, Chicago, United States. The normality of the data was checked by using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The equality of variance was assessed by Levene's test. The p-value was set at 5% level of significance. Two sample t-test was applied since the data followed normal distribution. Total of 16 dental students, 5 male and 11 female, 22.06±0.77 mean age, 20-23 age range were included in this study. Participants did not have prior training on radiation protection. The mean knowledge of radiation protection was 52.5%, 5.25±1.52, maximum 8 and minimum 3 which was inadequate. There was statistically significant difference of knowledge according to gender, p=0.01, t(14)=2.92. The mean response was 60% (adequate) for 21 years of participants and was inadequate at other ages. The knowledge of radiation protection should be improved among dental students. Adequate course materials and trainings should be included in their study. Radiation protection national laws should be implemented as soon as possible.