ALARA study of teaching effectiveness on reducing radiation exposure

Gastroenterol Nurs. 1998 Nov-Dec;21(6):234-8. doi: 10.1097/00001610-199811000-00002.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to measure the effectiveness of radiation safety instruction and the impact on radiation film badge levels. A convenience sample of 144 endoscopy nurses and technicians was pretested for radiation safety knowledge, given a course in radiation safety, and then posttested immediately after the course and then 6 months later. Radiation badges were analyzed for radiation exposure at preinstruction, 1 month postinstruction, and 6 months postinstruction. Results showed that the instruction was effective. There was only a slight decrease in radiation badge readings; the decrease, however, was not statistically significant.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / nursing*
  • Education, Nursing, Continuing / organization & administration*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maximum Allowable Concentration
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / education*
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology
  • Program Evaluation
  • Radiation Monitoring*
  • Radiation Protection*
  • Specialties, Nursing / education*
  • Staff Development / organization & administration*