Physicians Knowledge of Radiation Risk in Prescribing CT Imaging in Moroccan Hospitals
Slimane Semghouli *
Department of Health Techniques, Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Agadir, Morocco
Bouchra Amaoui
Department of Radiotherapy, Regional Center of Oncology, Agadir, Morocco
Abdenasser El Kharras
Department of Medical Imaging, 1st Center Medico-Surgical, Agadir, Morocco
Abdelillah Shaim
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
Oum Keltoum Hakam
Department of Physics, Nuclear Physics and Techniques Team, Faculty of Science, University Ibn Tofail, Kenitra, Morocco
Abdelmajid Choukri
Department of Physics, Nuclear Physics and Techniques Team, Faculty of Science, University Ibn Tofail, Kenitra, Morocco
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study aims to assess physicians’ knowledge on patients’ radiation protection during their computed tomography (CT) scan prescriptions.
Materials and Methods: A standardized questionnaire in multiple-choice format consisted of four sections with a total of eight questions based on the literature review. A total of 153 (59%) completed questionnaires were returned from six different hospitals in Morocco.
Results: Only 38% of prescribers took into account the ratio benefit/risk related to x-rays. Just 10% of doctors explained the risk related to x-rays to the patients. One out of four physicians has correctly estimated the effective dose received by patient during a CT scan of abdomen pelvic examination. 63% of physicians underestimated the lifetime risk of fatal cancer attributable to a single CT scan of the abdomen pelvic. Only 14% of practitioners have received formal training on risks to patients from radiation exposure.
Conclusion: The present study demonstrated the limited knowledge of radiation exposure among Physicians’ and Residents and this can be improved through educational and training programs.
Keywords: Medical exposure, CT scan, patients’ radiation protection, X-ray risks