Assessment of patients’ awareness of the significance of X-ray warning signs in Nigerian tertiary hospitals: a cross-sectional study

X-rays play a crucial role in modern medical practice, enabling more accurate diagnoses of diseases and injuries. However, despite its clinical significance, X-rays have been associated with potentially harmful biological effects if not properly managed; hence, the need for radiation optimisation and adherence to safety protocols. This study evaluates patients' awareness of the significance of X-ray warning signs, their understanding of the signs used, and their knowledge of the effects of radiation on biological cells. This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2025 at the radiology departments of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital and the National Orthopaedic Hospital Enugu in Enugu, Nigeria. Well-structured questionnaires consisting of 20 questions and three sections were adopted. Data was analysed using the Chi-square test and descriptive statistics, with statistical significance set at<i>p</i>< 0.05. 186 questionnaires were received and analysed, and the gender distribution was equal (50% male, 50% female). While the majority of participants have not been educated on the significance of X-ray warning signs, 30.1% are unaware of their existence. The majority (57.5%) of the participants reported no difficulty understanding the X-ray warning light, signal/signs, and 32.8% did not obey the warning signs observed. Patients in the studied hospitalslack proper enlightenment on the significance of X-ray warning signs. This highlights the need for hospitals to initiate a laid-down policy to educate patients on radiation safety protocols, and ultimately prevent accidental radiation exposure.