Assessment of radiation safety awareness among nurses in nuclear medicine departments

Background: Nuclear medicine is a critical specialty involving the use of radioactive materials for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Nurses working in these departments are frequently exposed to ionizing radiation, placing them at occupational risk. Despite the availability of safety guidelines, the extent of nurses' awareness of and adherence to radiation protection protocols remains uncertain. This study was conducted to assess the level of radiation safety awareness among nurses in nuclear medicine departments across Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 19 January to 24 March 2025 using a structured, self-administered questionnaire distributed via online platforms. A total of 233 registered nurses participated and met the predefined inclusion criteria. The data were analyzed using SPSS, focusing on descriptive statistics and inferential tests to evaluate awareness, knowledge, and protective practices. Results: Most nurses demonstrated moderate-to-good general awareness of radiation safety. However, gaps were identified in specific areas, including knowledge of dose limits, use of personal dosimeters, and formal training. Notably, over half of the participants had not received structured radiation safety education, and adherence to protective practices, such as exposure time, distance, and shielding, was inconsistent. Institutional support was found to be present in many settings; however, protocol enforcement varied widely. Conclusion: The study reveals a need for enhanced, continuous radiation safety training and stronger institutional enforcement to ensure consistent protective practices among nurses in nuclear medicine. Improving awareness and compliance is essential for both staff safety and quality patient care.