https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/52160 2026-04-30T14:30:00Z 2026-04-30T14:30:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/111276 2023-07-06T05:22:23Z 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Scattered radiation and dose to staff during a dynamic hip screw procedure Abstract: Introduction: Scattered or secondary radiation is the radiation given off by the patients when they are being irradiated. This secondary radiation usually consists of low energy photons; these are more harmful than high energy photons since they are absorbed by the body. Once absorbed by the body irreparable damage to the cells is done. One of the most common procedures in the Orthopaedic Operating Theatre is the Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) procedure for fixation of hip fractures. Aim: This study attempted to check which are the safest zones in the operating theatre during a DHS procedure. Method: It used a descriptive correlational design to check if the dose received by the staff standing in close proximity to the patient differs significantly from that received by staff standing further away from the patient. A DHS study was simulated using an anthropological phantom and the scattered radiation was measured, using a Bicron dose rate meter, at different distances from the patient. Results: As expected the study showed that the dose decreases significantly as the distance from the source of radiation increases thus showing that the surgeon, assistant surgeon and scrub nurse receive the highest doses during a DHS procedure. Conclusion: This study concluded that the safest areas in an operating theatre when use of fluoroscopy is made, are those furthest away from the source of radiation and that there is a significant difference between the dose at 1m and 2m away from this source. This study also concluded that even taking one step backwards decreases the dose considerably. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY

2008-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/53352 2020-11-13T06:17:17Z 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The perceptions of patients attending for a computed tomography (CT) scan on radiation dose. Abstract: Introduction Given the current debate about the possible increased cancer risk associated with diagnostic CT scans, it is important that the radiology community make current information regarding CT radiation dose more widely available. Purpose The purpose of this research study was to determine the awareness level concerning radiation dose and possible risks associated with CT scans amongst patients. The study also aimed to discover whether the patients wanted to be informed about these aspects or not. Methodology Fifty out- patients undergoing a CT scan at Mater Dei Hospital were surveyed before the acquisition of a CT scan. Patients were asked about the radiation doses involved, as well as about the possibility of radiation hazards. In addition, their willingness to be informed was also determined. Results Of the 48 participants who successfully handed in their questionnaire, 77.1% stated that they had previously heard about radiation risks, mentioning cancer, sterility and pregnancy as the principal radiation hazards. However, only 39.6% of the respondents had previously heard of radiation protection. In addition, 89.4% declared that someone should inform patients about this subject; with 54.4% indicating doctors as those responsible for this task. Conclusions Before being referred for a CT scan, patients should be better informed regarding radiation doses and risks, since it is the patient's ethical and medical right to be aware of the potential side-effects of the procedures applied to them. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY

2008-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/53348 2020-11-13T06:33:52Z 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Biomedical imaging device physics competences for first cycle nursing curricula. Abstract: Little research has been done to investigate the presence of musculoskeletal injuries amongst radiographers. This study investigated the various anatomical regions that radiographers have sustained an injury which in their opinion is related due to work. The research tool used was a questionnaire, from which qualitative and quantitative data was obtained. The main causes leading to an injury were outlined and listed and the data was analyzed and as the results show, musculoskeletal injuries exist amongst radiographers as the incidence was of 64% of the total participants. Several recommendations were given in the respondents' opinion on how to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries in the future. The most common being the requirement for continues professional development with regular courses as regards patient lifting and handling techniques. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY

2008-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/53263 2020-11-15T06:59:47Z 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Radiographers' knowledge in identifying and treating adverse reactions to intravenous urography contrast media. Abstract: Introduction The administration of contrast media during radiological procedures increases the diagnostic value of the anatomy under investigation which otherwise would not be visible on the image. However, contrast media may cause adverse reactions which although uncommon and usually minor, they may result in a life-threatening situation. In this regard immediate, direct and appropriate therapy is crucial. Objectives The purpose of this research was to assess and evaluate radiographers' knowledge in identifying and treating potential physiological adverse reactions to Non-ionic contrast media (NICM) while performing Intravenous Urography (IVU) examinations. This was of outmost importance even more nowadays that it has become a routine practice for radiographers to administer these contrast agents. : Methodology The radiographers' knowledge was assessed by performing a cross-sectional, non-experimental research design. A face-to-face interview was performed to all radiographers working in the intravenous urography room at the Medical Imaging Department at Mater Dei Hospital, Malta. Results Results indicate that knowledge in identifying and treating adverse reactions appears to be quite poor. Even though radiographers seemed reluctant to attend courses from which they could acquire the necessary knowledge, all respondents recognize the need for further courses concerning this subject as they are all aware that new side effects and new methods of treatment may arise. Conclusion Based on the findings of the study, the researcher put forward a number of conclusions, and recommendations. These recommendations offer more effective means of improving and increasing radiographers' knowledge, awareness and general departmental service quality. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY

2008-01-01T00:00:00Z