363 - Evaluation of radiation protection and catheterization laboratory safety in Nepal.

Owing to the elevated radiation exposure of patients and personnel, the catheterization laboratory is particularly in need of optimal levels of radiation protection and safety protocols. Developing safe radiation procedures improves the safety of patients and personnel. This study aims to determine the necessary modifications to enhance the quality of care and implement safety and radiation protection measures for catheterization laboratories throughout Nepal. An online descriptive cross-sectional survey was emailed to all catheterization laboratory of Nepal. The questionnaire consisted of 32 questions focusing on radiation protection and safety in the catheterization laboratory. Results were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, and frequencies and percentages were calculated and summarized. Survey findings demonstrated a 70.42% adopted radiation protection and safety among 28 catheterization laboratory across Nepal. 32.1% respondents were unaware of the Radio-absorbent patient drapes, and 50% reported systematically using real-time radiation dose monitoring. Most of the survey respondents (92.9%) had updated emergency crash cart and 21.4% don't have clearly apparent radiation hazard indicator. 78.6% catheterization laboratory segregated waste according to National HealthCare Waste Management Standard Operating Procedure. 56.4% lacked personnel radiation dose monitoring devices. All participants are oriented for six steps of handwashing, wearing gloves, donning and doffing of Personal Protective Equipment; despite 78.6% only received at least Basic Life Support training. Physicians, Radiographers, Physicists, Nurses and hospital administration should work together to establish a radiation protection and safety program for the catheterization laboratory. The findings will be utilized to pinpoint shortcomings and create strategies for enhancing radiation protection and safety in catheterization labs across Nepal. Key stakeholders, including the Nepal Radiological Society, will need to continue collaborating with other organizations in order to enhance patient care and better promote, integrate, and drive resourcing of radiation protection and safety at all catheterization laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]