The Effect of Nurses\' Virtual Learning on Knowledge and Practice of Observing X-Ray Protection Principles

Abstract

Introduction: Increasing the level of knowledge about X-ray protection can play an important role in reducing the effects of radiation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of virtual education of nurses on adherence to X-ray protective principles. Methods: This study was a randomized clinical trial on 90 nurses. Educational intervention was virtualized through social network. Questionnaires were completed before and after the intervention in both groups and the data were analyzed by paired and independent t-test using SPSS 24. Results: The mean and standard deviation of the level of protection against x-rays in the intervention group before and after the intervention were 15.84±3.64, 30.2±26.3 and in the control group before and after the intervention was 14.08±4.45, 48.14±4.27, respectively. Mean and standard deviation of nurses' performance score before and after intervention in the intervention group were 2.8±1.03, 5.62±0.96 and 3.82±1.07, 3.93±1.03 in the control group before and after the intervention, respectively. The results of paired and independent t-test showed that the mean of performance and the mean score of nurses' knowledge about the application of the principles of X-ray protection before and after the intervention in the intervention group were significantly different; the mean score of nurses' performance and knowledge after intervention was increased (P=0.000). Conclusion: Learning based on cyberspace increases the level of protection knowledge and the performance of nurses against X-rays.

Keywords

• virtual learning
• x-ray protection
• nurse
• knowledge
• practice