This study investigates the measurement of radiation dose levels and safety practices in X-ray units within selected hospitals in the Jos metropolis, Nigeria. Through a comprehensive analysis of data collected from healthcare providers involved in X-ray imaging procedures, key findings emerge regarding the frequency of imaging procedures, average radiation dose levels, factors influencing dose variability, awareness and adherence to safety guidelines, and recommendations for enhancing radiation safety practices. The findings underscore the importance of optimizing imaging protocols, enhancing training initiatives, fostering a culture of safety, and implementing continuous quality improvement measures to mitigate radiation risks and ensure patient safety. Recommendations are provided for X-ray unit operators, hospital management, and future research endeavors to address limitations and further enhance radiation safety practices in X-ray imaging procedures. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights to the field of radiation safety in healthcare settings, emphasizing the significance of prioritizing patient safety and quality of care in X-ray units.
- To assess the current radiation dose levels in patients undergoing X-ray imaging at selected hospitals in the Jos metropolis, Nigeria.
- To identify factors influencing variations in radiation dose levels across different X-ray units within the study area.
- To evaluate the level of awareness and adherence to radiation safety guidelines among healthcare providers involved in X-ray imaging.
- What is the current radiation dose levels in patients undergoing X-ray imaging at selected hospitals in the Jos metropolis, Nigeria?
- What are the factors influencing variations in radiation dose levels across different X-ray units within the study area?
- What are the level of awareness and adherence to radiation safety guidelines among healthcare providers involved in X-ray imaging?
Title Page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Table of Content
List of Tables
Abstract
Chapter One:
Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
1.1.1 Importance of X-ray Imaging in Medical Diagnosis
1.1.2 Risks Associated With Radiation Exposure in Medical Imaging
1.1.3 Need for Radiation Dose Monitoring in X-ray Units
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Significance of the Study
1.6 Scope of the Study
1.7 Operational Definitions of Key Terms
Chapter Two:
Literature Review
2.1 Overview of Medical Radiation and Its Effects
2.1.1 Types of Radiation Used in Medical Imaging
2.1.2 Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation
2.2 Radiation Dose Measurement in Medical Imaging
2.2.1 Methods of Measuring Radiation Dose
2.2.2 Devices Used for Radiation Dose Measurement
2.3 Previous Studies on Radiation Dose Levels in X-ray Units
2.3.1 Studies Conducted Locally
2.3.2 International Studies
2.4 Factors Affecting Radiation Dose Levels in X-ray Imaging
2.4.1 Equipment Factors
2.4.2 Patient Factors
2.4.3 Operator Factors
2.5 Regulatory Framework for Radiation Safety in Medical Imaging
Chapter Three:
Research Methodology
3.1 Research Design
3.2 Study Area
3.3 Population and Sampling Techniques
3.3.1 Inclusion Criteria
3.3.2 Exclusion Criteria
3.4 Data Collection Methods
3.4.2 Direct Measurement of Radiation Dose
3.5 Data Analysis Techniques
3.5.1 Descriptive Statistics
3.5.2 Inferential Statistics
3.6 Ethical Considerations
Chapter Four:
Data Presentation, Analysis, and Discussion
4.1 Presentation of Data
4.2 Analysis of Data
4.2.1 Descriptive Analysis
4.2.2 Inferential Analysis
4.3 Discussion of Findings
4.3.1 Comparison With Previous Studies
4.3.2 Interpretation of Results
4.3.3 Implications for Radiation Safety in X-ray Units
Chapter Five:
Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1 Summary of Findings
5.2 Conclusion
5.3 Recommendations
5.3.1 Recommendations for X-ray Unit Operators
5.3.2 Recommendations for Hospital Management
5.3.3 Recommendations for Future Research
5.4 Limitations of the Study
References
Appendices