Availability and utilisation of radiation protection and safety measures by Medical Imaging Technologists in Rwandan Hospitals

Abstract: Medical imaging technologists (MITs) are taught and use techniques and protective devices to keep radiation to a minimum, to themselves, patients and the environment, through but not limited to shielding, employing appropriate distances, optimum radiographic exposures, and use of techniques such as good communication, immobilization, beam limitation, justification for radiation exposure and quality control programmes. Following the enactment of the new law relating to radiation protection in 2018, it was relevant to interrogate the current state of radiology departments to establish whether they are equipped for implementation of the new regulations. The aim of this study therefore, was to assess the availability and utilization of radiation and safety measures by medical imaging technologists in Rwandan Hospitals. A quantitative non-experimental descriptive method study design was used and data was collected by means of a questionnaire which was developed by the researcher using studies conducted in other jurisdictions and adapted to suit the local context to achieve the aim and target all the MITs in the public hospitals. One hundred and sixteen (116) representing 96.67% of expected participants from public hospitals participated in the study. The participants came from 44 (91.67%) of the total of 48 public hospitals. The study found that radiation safety measures were not adequately implemented as 40.87% of MITs did not have radiation-measuring devices, with 29% of those having the devices, not receiving results consistently. Lead rubber aprons were mostly vi available for 99.13%, however, 59% of participants had never checked their integrity. A Pigg-o-stat was the least available at 0.86%. 36.8% of MITs blamed neglect by administrators as a reason for non-availability of the radiation equipment. Participants mostly used lead rubber aprons (93.04%) and lead equivalent barriers (83.62%). There was a lack of adequate radiation safety equipment while quality management, use of exposure charts and use of immobilizing devices as techniques for radiation safety were not implemented. It was evident that education and experience did not influence the radiation safety practice. Barriers to radiation safety were negligence, lack of equipment and difficulty in using some of the equipment. There is a need for a concerted effort between RURA, the Ministry of Health, training institutions and hospital managements to improve the culture of radiation safety.M.Tech. (Radiography