Radiation Exposure in Endoscopy – Providing a Safe Environment

To give an overview of the potential ionizing radiation exposure risks associated with particular endoscopic procedures and awareness amongst endoscopy nurses. Radiation is a hazard because of its ability to modify molecules within the body cells, thus causing cell dysfunction, alter cell replication or cell distraction.

Staff training through hands-on practices and theory was organised by the Radiology personnel from the Health ' Safety team. Training was mandatory to all nurses assisting with such interventions. The team of 20 nurses attended to various lectures and participated at procedures both within the endoscopy unit and the Radiology department [1] [2] [3].

Most of the attendees were not aware of proper electromagnetic energy exposure methods that should be applied to reduce such risks, namely recommended distancing, exposure time reduction and proper shielding [ideal lead aprons/ thyroid shields/ visors]. Management were also included in these skills together with engineering division. Although radiation exposure in endoscopy is low, monitoring badges worn by endoscopy nurses demonstrated further exposure reduction levels in time.

This project highlighted the importance of incorporating radiation safety awareness to endoscopy nurses during their induction training programs. It also became relevant how important it is to monitor the fluoroscopy environment of the endoscopy unit, namely for radiation leaks; radiology equipment servicing and maintenance; scanning of radiology attire and procedure rooms.

Publication History

Article published online:
27 March 2025

• References

• 1 US Nuclear Regulatory Commision (NRC) Title 10, Part 20. Code of Federal Regulations,'Standards for Protection Agaist Radiation'
• 2 European Consensus on Patient contact shielding – 2021).
• 3 Gastroenterology Nursing Core Curriculum. 2018. Society Of Gastroenterology Nurses ' Associates. Environmental Safety Chapter 4.