Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude of Parents about ionizing radiation and medical imaging

This literature review systematically evaluates current evidence on parental knowledge and attitudes about ionizing radiation risks from paediatric imaging exams. A comprehensive search identified ۱۰ high-quality studies that surveyed parental radiation knowledge using questionnaires. Research spanned several countries. A key finding was inadequate radiation knowledge, with under ۵۰% of parents demonstrating correct awareness in over ۵ studies. For instance, only ۳۲-۴۰% knew children have higher radiosensitivity and ۹-۳۱% correctly compared CT and X-ray radiation doses. However, most parents expressed positive attitudes about justified paediatric radiation procedures, especially with prior imaging experience. Still, some safety concerns persisted. In ۴ studies, under ۴۰% reported risks being clearly explained pre-imaging. Parental knowledge was higher with more education in ۵ analyses. Multimedia education was preferred. In conclusion, this review reveals substantial knowledge gaps and deficient radiation risk communication among parents regarding common paediatric imaging involving ionizing radiation. Targeted multimedia education initiatives optimized for health literacy levels are required to empower informed parental decisions about child radiation exposure. Clinical protocols promoting transparent provider-parent radiation dose and risk discussions should be implemented. Further research on tailored risk communication strategies for diverse parents is warranted. Addressing these knowledge deficiencies is crucial to enhance paediatric radiation safety. In summary, this well-conducted systematic review provides compelling evidence that paediatric imaging radiation risks are inadequately communicated to parents, resulting in knowledge gaps negatively impacting informed medical decision-making and child safety. The authors make a persuasive case for improving parent education and transparent provider communication as a priority to protect children from unnecessary radiation exposure during essential diagnostic imaging.

Keywords:

Awareness , Patents , Caregivers , Medical Imaging , Radiation exposure