najarchi A, mohebiniya M, shamsi M. Knowledge, attitude and practice of dental students at Arak University of Medical Sciences towards radiation protection principles in 2024. J Dent Med-tums 2025; 38 : 12
URL:
http://jdm.tums.ac.ir/article-1-6347-en.html
1- Student Research Committee, School of Dentistry, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
2- Assistant Professor, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
3- Professor, Department of Public Health, School of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
Abstract: (941 Views)
Background and Aims: Given the risks of repeated exposure to ionizing radiation in dentistry and its potential adverse effects on the health of patients, staff, and students, adherence to radiation protection principles is a fundamental priority in this profession. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practice, and behavioral predictors of dental students at Arak University of Medical Sciences regarding the radiation protection principles in 2024.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted as a census on 120 dental students during October 2024 to March 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which included sections on demographic information, knowledge assessment (maximum score: 20), attitudes (maximum score: 55), and practice (maximum score: 16). The questionnaire used was a revised version of a standard instrument, the validity (CVR=0.62, CVI=0.79) and reliability (Cronbach's alpha >0.7 for all sections) of which were measured and confirmed. Data analysis was performed using SPSS27, with analytical tests including the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman’s correlation, and predictive practice with asses test of linear regression.
Results: The number of 120 students with mean age of participants 23.59 ± 3.13 old years and 51.7% were male. The mean scores were as follows: knowledge (9.69 ± 2.51), attitude (27.88 ± 3.05), and practice (12.60 ± 1.06). A significant difference in knowledge was observed between the male and female students (P=0.035), which the male students’ scoring was higher. No significant differences were found in the attitude or practice between genders (P>0.05). Factors such as place of residence (dormitory or non dormitory), prior radiation protection training, age, GPA, and admission year showed no significant association with the knowledge, attitude, or practice (P>0.05). Based on the regression model, the greatest predictors of student performance were age (R2=0.247, P=0.015) and grade point average (R2=0.282, P=0.003).
Conclusion: While academic training effectively imparts knowledge of radiation protection, translating this knowledge into practical performance remains moderate and thus, highlighting the need for advanced hands-on training courses.
Article number: 12