Padang — A technology-based radiation safety training program conducted at Siti Rahmah Hospital in Padang significantly improved healthcare workers’ understanding and practical skills in radiation protection, according to a 2026 publication in the Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Formosa (JPMF). The program was led by Fauzyah Aprillia, Cicillia Artitin, and Santa Mareta from Universitas Baiturrahmah and involved 30 healthcare workers participating in a one-day training session using electromedical simulation tools. The results show that interactive training supported by Arduino-based radiation simulation can strengthen safety awareness and competence among medical personnel exposed to radiological environments.
The findings are important as the use of radiological equipment continues to expand across healthcare facilities, increasing the need for broader radiation safety literacy beyond radiology specialists. Nurses, technicians, and supporting healthcare staff frequently operate near radiation sources but often receive limited formal training in radiation protection principles.
Radiation exposure risks in healthcare settings remain a global occupational concern. Without adequate understanding of protection procedures, healthcare workers face increased vulnerability to cumulative exposure effects. Many existing training programs rely primarily on lecture-based approaches, which may not provide sufficient practical understanding of radiation hazards and prevention strategies. The Padang training initiative demonstrates how simulation-supported education can improve both conceptual knowledge and operational readiness.
The training program took place in January 2026 at Siti Rahmah Hospital in Padang City and involved participants from diverse professional backgrounds, including nurses, medical staff, and technical support personnel working with radiological equipment. Researchers from Universitas Baiturrahmah designed the program using an educative-participatory approach that combined lectures, demonstrations, hands-on practice, and structured evaluation.
Participants received instruction on the biological effects of radiation exposure, the principles of radiation protection such as justification, optimization, and dose limitation, and the correct use of protective equipment including lead aprons and thyroid shields. A key component of the training was the use of an Arduino-based radiation simulation device that visualized radiation exposure levels in a simple and interactive way. This simulation helped participants understand abstract radiation safety concepts through direct observation and practice.
Evaluation results confirmed a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge following the intervention. Average scores increased from 55 before training to 85 after the session, demonstrating a measurable gain in radiation safety literacy. Statistical analysis using paired sample testing showed a significant difference between pre-test and post-test results, with a significance level below 0.05, confirming the effectiveness of the applied training approach.
In addition to knowledge improvement, observational assessments indicated stronger practical competence in using radiation protection equipment and maintaining safe positioning relative to radiation sources. Participants showed greater confidence in applying safety procedures during routine clinical activities after completing the training.
According to Fauzyah Aprillia from Universitas Baiturrahmah, integrating electromedical technology into training sessions helps healthcare workers better understand radiation exposure risks through direct visualization rather than theoretical explanation alone. The research team emphasized that simulation-based learning increases engagement and strengthens long-term retention of safety procedures.
The study also highlights the importance of accessible training opportunities for non-radiology healthcare workers. Many staff members working near diagnostic imaging equipment have limited exposure to structured radiation protection education. By introducing simple yet effective simulation tools, the Padang training program demonstrated how practical learning environments can bridge this gap.
Beyond individual skill improvement, the training contributes to safer clinical environments by reducing occupational exposure risks and strengthening institutional safety culture. Healthcare workers who understand radiation protection principles are more likely to follow correct safety protocols and support patient protection during imaging procedures.
The researchers from Universitas Baiturrahmah also emphasized the broader relevance of simulation-supported learning for healthcare education. Interactive visualization tools such as Arduino-based devices can simplify complex scientific concepts and improve comprehension among participants with different professional backgrounds. This approach offers a scalable model for radiation safety education in hospitals and training institutions.
The study further recommends expanding similar training programs to include larger participant groups and conducting long-term evaluations to measure sustained improvements in safety behavior. Continuous professional education remains essential as radiological technologies become increasingly integrated into modern healthcare systems.
According to the research team, collaboration between universities and healthcare institutions plays a critical role in strengthening workforce readiness for emerging technological risks in medical environments. The Padang program demonstrates how targeted training initiatives can support safer healthcare delivery through improved radiation awareness and protection practices.
Author Profiles
Source
“Improving Radiation Safety Literacy Among Healthcare Workers Through Electromedical Technology-Based Training in Padang City,” Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Formosa (JPMF), 2026. DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/jpmf.v5i2.159
0 Komentar