Investigation of the role of radiation protection knowledge of health workers on radiation attitude.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between radiation protection knowledge of health workers and their attitudes towards radiation. In this context, it was investigated how much knowledge health workers have about radiation safety and how this knowledge is associated with their attitudes towards radiation. METHODS: A quantitative research design was used in this study. Using convenience sampling method, 309 health workers were included in this study. "Personal Information Form", "Radiation Protection Knowledge Scale" and "Radiation Attitude Scale" were used in the study. The data were analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) program. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found between the radiation protection knowledge levels of the health workers participating in the study according to their occupational groups. It was observed that the support staff of health workers had a lower level of radiation protection knowledge than doctors and nurses. A positive relationship was observed between radiation protection and radiation attitude of health workers. In addition, a positive association between radiation protection knowledge and radiation attitude was also observed. CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of the study, an increase in health workers' knowledge of radiation protection is positively associated with their attitudes and behaviors regarding radiation safety. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.