OKEH E.O.

Thyroid shields are protective devices used in radiography to reduce exposure of the thyroid gland to ionizing radiation. The thyroid is a radiosensitive organ, and shielding it is an important radiation protection practice. However, despite its importance, the consistent use of thyroid shields by radiography students is not always emphasized in training institutions in Nigeria. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge among final-year radiography students regarding the use of thyroid shields at the University of Benin. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted, involving 94 final-year radiography students. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, knowledge of thyroid anatomy and radiation sensitivity, knowledge of thyroid shield usage, and awareness of institutional practices regarding radiation protection. The collected data were coded and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation to determine the relationship between different knowledge domains. The results showed that students had high theoretical knowledge of thyroid anatomy and radiation sensitivity, with 91.5% correct responses. However, only 25.5% reported applying thyroid shields during practical radiographic proceduresKnowledge of proper shield usage showed a moderate positive correlation with knowledge of thyroid anatomy and radiation sensitivity (r = 0.465, p = 0.000). Additionally, institutional support was very limited, with fewer than 2% of students reporting the availability of thyroid shields or formal training on their use. Although students demonstrated strong theoretical understanding, their practical application of thyroid shields remains inadequate. Improving hands-on training, increasing access to protective equipment, and implementing formal radiation safety policies are recommended to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. Keywords: Thyroid shields, protective devices, radiosensitive organ, Spearman’s rank correlation.

The research was on knowledge and perception of the radiographers on film-reporting in Edo State, Nigeria. The descriptive cross-sectional design was considered and data was collected through structured questionnaires that were conducted on 65 radiographers selected in a number of hospitals and diagnostic centres. The descriptive and inferential statistics were applied in analysing the data. The results showed that the majority of radiographers were well informed about the film reporting, and they acknowledged that it can enhance the efficiency of diagnostic procedures and patient care. Most of them gave favorable reports about the introduction of film reporting in radiographic practice and how it can help ease the workload of radiologists as well as improve their professional development. Nevertheless, the research has established some of the major obstacles like absence of formal training, policy support, medico-legal issues, and professional competition between radiographers and radiologists. The findings also indicated a significant role of academic background, workplace culture as well as radiographer support towards readiness to participate in film reporting. This paper concludes that radiographers in Edo state are informed, and eager to embrace the use of film reporting in case they are given proper training and enabling policies. It suggests that film reporting should be included in the radiography curriculum, the continuous professional development programs and the legal landscape should be clear to promote the safe and effective application of film-reporting practices in Nigeria.