The Radio pharmacy, Nuclear Medicine, Radiology and Radiotherapy departments at KUTRRH (Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital) play crucial roles in patient care, diagnostics and treatment.Radiation safety is of paramount importance in these departments that utilize ionizing radiation.
The Hospital has prioritized radiation safety in these departments to demonstrate commitment to patient and staff well-being, regulatory compliance, and the provision of high-quality healthcare services. This in turn has provided a safe environment for patients and staff, minimized radiation risks and promoted the delivery of effective and reliable diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Patient Safety:
Radiation safety measures are crucial for protecting the well-being and safety of patients undergoing procedures involving ionizing radiation. The Hospital is strictly adhering to radiation safety protocols that helps to minimize radiation exposure, reducing potential risks associated with radiation-related side effects and complications. Patient safety ensures that patients receive the necessary diagnostic or therapeutic benefits while minimizing radiation-related harm.
Staff Safety:
KUTRRH has put in place radiation safety practices essential to protect healthcare professionals working in these departments, including radiologists, radiologic technologists, nuclear medicine physicians, radiation oncologists, radio pharmacists, and medical physicists. By implementing proper shielding, use of personal protective equipment and following safety guidelines, staff members have minimal occupational radiation exposure and reduced associated health risks.
Public Safety and Environmental Protection:
The Hospital has in place effective radiation safety measures that ensure the safety of the general public and the surrounding environment. There is proper handling, storage and disposal of radioactive materials, as well as
appropriate radiation shielding, radiation caution signages and other safety measures during procedures that help prevent radiation exposure to non-patients and minimize any potential impact on the environment.
Compliance with Regulatory Standards:
KUTRRH adheres to radiation safety standards that ensure compliance with local, national and international regulations and guidelines. Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) has established specific standards to protect patients, staff, and the public. The hospital has demonstrated commitment to compliance with these standards in order to provide safe and high-quality care.
Minimizing Radiation Risks:
The Hospital has in place radiation safety protocols that aim to minimize the risks associated with radiation exposure such as radiation-induced cancers, tissue damage, and genetic effects. By implementing dose optimization
techniques such as the ALARA Principle, utilizing advanced imaging technologies and employing precision radiation therapy methods, the respective departments have reduced the potential for complications and long-term
radiation-related effects while maximizing the benefits of the procedures.
Training and Education:
Radiation safety practices are emphasized through training and education programs for staff members. The hospital offers continuous education that ensures all personnel in these departments are knowledgeable about radiation risks, safety measures and best practices. Continuous training has promoted a culture of safety, kept staff updated on the latest advancements in radiation safety and has reinforced the importance of adherence to established protocols.
Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement:
Radiation safety is an integral part of quality assurance programs in these departments. The Hospital conducts regular external and internal safety assessments, equipment maintenance, calibration and adherence to standardized protocols that ensure accurate and safe procedures. In addition, there is continuous monitoring, incident reporting and investigation of any radiation-related incidents to contribute to ongoing improvement in radiation safety practices.