Compliance with Radiation Protection Principles in Radiotherapy Units

Background: One of the most harmful agents in hospital settings is ionizing radiation such as X-rays that physicians and other staff expose in surgeries and diagnostic tests. Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure X-ray dose in the diagnostic radiology units of hospitals affiliated to North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional study, in which all of the hospitals' diagnostic radiology units including CT scan, mammography, fluoroscopy and radiography were studied. X-ray dose was measured by a dosimeter-radiometer device (MKS-05 Terra-P). The International Radiation Protection Association (IAEA) checklist was used to check the observance of the Radiation Protection Principles. Results: The results of this study showed that the X-ray doses in the CT scan, mammography, and fluoroscopy units of Bojnord Imam Ali Hospital were 0.16, 0.08 and 0.01 μSv/h, respectively. The doses of X-ray in the radiology units of Imam Ali (PBUH), Imam Reza (PBUH), Esfarayen and Shirvan Hospitals were 0.12, 0.12, 0.11, and 0.11 μSv/h, respectively. Conclusion: According to the results, the X-ray doses in the diagnostic radiology units of hospitals were lower than the standard limit proposed by the International Radiation Protection Association. However, it is proposed to use appropriate protective lead aprons to further protect the exposed staff in the units in question.