Education in radiation protection from the perspective of Health professionals: an integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: Ionizing radiation has wide applicability in health, bringing numerous benefits to patients. However, health professionals subject to routine exposure to this risk agent must take special care not to harm their health, as well as be properly instructed in radiological protection. Objectives: Knowing the current scenario about ‘education in radiological protection’ among health professionals through an integrative review. Methods: This is a review study that aims to search articles related to knowledge, including theoretical and practical knowledge, from health professionals in radiological protection. Literature research was based on portals and virtual bases. The analysis of the selected articles was based on the framework of competences, skills and attitudes in radiological protection. Results: Fifteen articles were selected. Among a small number of health professionals who had education in radiation protection, the most frequent form of education is in-service training. Inadequate attitudes of radiological protection may be the result of deficient education on this topic, and it is observed that when professionals do not have enough information on the subject, they do not take sufficient preventive actions. Conclusion: There is a weakness in the practices and knowledge in radioprotection among health professionals and it is necessary to raise the awareness about the risks. It is important to provide adequate knowledge of the radiation protection mechanisms to the professional, so that they can properly manage their radiation exposure.