Quality of Health and the use of protective devices by radiological technologists to minimize the effects

of ionizing radiation among Northeast Tennessee Hospitals

By: Sarah King

East Tennessee State University

Research in Allied Health 4060

April 23, 2008

Research Questions

• How often do radiological technologists wear the lead apron when performing a radiological procedure?

• What precautions are being taken, such as the use of protective devices, when a radiological procedure is being administered?

• By incorporating knowledge of the effects of ionizing radiation during radiological procedures performed in Northeast Tennessee hospitals, does reducing the amount of radiation exposure by using protective devices and following procedures make a significant impact on the quality of health of the patient and the radiological technologist?

Methodology

• Since using survey research in my project, I chose to mail in the questionnaires.Within this research project, a survey was given out to all radiological technologists in Northeast Tennessee hospitals concerning their usage of the protective devices required to minimize and shield against the effects of ionizing radiation on themselves and their patients. I mailed the anonymous surveys to each radiological technologist and enclosed a five dollar gift card to Quizno’s as an incentive for completion and submission of the survey within two weeks. Other ways I distributed the surveys and then to get them back was by using online surveys and by posting the surveys at every hospital to ensure that all of the radiological technologists, including all shifts, will have an opportunity to obtain the survey, complete it, and then submit the survey back to me so that I may continue on with my research. Also enclosed with each survey, I provided a stamped, addressed envelope so that the radiological technologists will have no trouble submitting the surveys back to me within the allotted time given.

Findings and Conclusions

• Within this study, I found that there were some radiological technologists who did not use or store their protective devices properly while at work. However, there were some who did use and store their protective devices properly. The results shown within this project can be used to guide a clinical leader on what training and in-services need to be done to help their department with safety issues. They may also be used to compare safety records within departments. Also, this study will help radiological technologists and their patients learn how to better protect themselves from ionizing radiation and improve their quality of health.