OKUNGBOWA, G. E.

ABSTRACT Background: Parental perception and anxiety significantly influence pediatric radiographic procedures, affecting diagnostic quality and patient cooperation. However, limited research exists on this topic in Nigerian tertiary healthcare settings. Aim: This study assessed parental perceptions and anxiety levels related to pediatric radiographic procedures at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 422 parents/guardians of pediatric patients (aged 0-17 years) undergoing radiographic procedures at UBTH. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic characteristics, a 10-item parental perception scale, and the 6-item State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (S- STAI). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 29, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and chi-square tests at p<0.05 significance level. Results: The response rate was 94.8% (n=400). Mean parental age was 36.4±7.2 years, with 62.5% being mothers. Most parents (68.3%) had tertiary education. The mean perception score was 38.2±5.6 (range: 10-50), indicating moderately positive perceptions. Mean anxiety score was 16.8±4.3 (range: 6-24), reflecting moderate anxiety levels. A significant negative correlation existed between parental perception and anxiety (r=- 0.512, p<0.001). Educational level significantly influenced anxiety levels (χ²=28.45, p<0.001), with less educated parents experiencing higher anxiety. Conclusion: Parents at UBTH demonstrated moderate anxiety levels during pediatric radiographic procedures, significantly associated with their perceptions. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to improve parental understanding and reduce anxiety. Keywords: Parental perception, anxiety, pediatric radiography, tertiary healthcare, Nigeria

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with radiographers playing a crucial role in TB diagnosis through chest radiography. However, gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding TB among radiographers may compromise both diagnostic quality and infection control. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of radiographers towards TB cases in selected hospitals in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 43 radiographers from University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Lily Hospital, and Raytouch Diagnostic Center. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi- square tests (p<0.05). The majority of respondents (88.4%) demonstrated good knowledge of TB transmission, symptoms, causation, diagnosis, and prevention. Most participants (83.7%) exhibited positive attitudes toward TB patients, with 83.7% acknowledging professional duty to care for TB cases and 93% agreeing TB patients deserve equal care. However, practice levels were lower, with only 48.8% demonstrating good adherence to universal precautions, while 32.6% showed fair practice and 18.6% poor practice. No statistically significant associations were found between demographic characteristics and KAP levels (p>0.05). While radiographers in Benin City possess adequate knowledge and positive attitudes toward TB, practice gaps exist in implementing universal precautions. Findings emphasize the need for continuous professional training, improved access to personal protective equipment, and strengthened infection control policies to enhance TB management and reduce occupational exposure risks.