Research Article
Radiation Hazard Awareness Among Healthcare Workers in Nyeri County, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
1-10
Received:
8 January 2025
Accepted:
23 January 2025
Published:
11 February 2025
Abstract: The widespread use of radioactive equipment in hospitals necessitates adequate knowledge and tools among healthcare workers to prevent and monitor radiation exposure. The study investigated the effectiveness of radiation protection in the detection of exposures among healthcare workers in Nyeri County, Kenya, focusing on radiation exposure levels, level of awareness, and control measures. Using a cross-sectional design, the study targeted 1121 healthcare workers, with a sample of 294. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and a checklist, generating both quantitative and qualitative data. Dosimeter read-outs were conducted for one month and a radiation safety assessment survey in the Radiology department was also conducted using a radiation detector meter. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that about half of the healthcare workers had not received training on radiation hazards, and less than half were aware of the maximum permissible dose limit for adults. Approximately half of the workers knew that the eyes, thyroid glands, ovaries, and testis are susceptible to radiation hazards. The study recommended comprehensive and regular training programs for all healthcare workers, emphasizing the correct handling of lead aprons and the consistent use of personal protective devices such as lead aprons, lead glasses, portable lead shields, automatic interlock devices, and thyroid shields.
Abstract: The widespread use of radioactive equipment in hospitals necessitates adequate knowledge and tools among healthcare workers to prevent and monitor radiation exposure. The study investigated the effectiveness of radiation protection in the detection of exposures among healthcare workers in Nyeri County, Kenya, focusing on radiation exposure levels, ...
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Research Article
Knowledge and Perception on the Usage of Greywater for Backyard Cultivation of Native Herbs Among Residents of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria
Adejumo Mumuni*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
11-22
Received:
30 January 2025
Accepted:
12 February 2025
Published:
18 March 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jher.20251101.12
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Views:
Abstract: Water scarcity is a growing concern in many metropolitan area, especially in Nigeria. As a result, non-potable uses like irrigation are increasingly depending on alternative water sources. A potential resource for urban gardening is greywater, which is wastewater from domestic tasks like laundry, bathing, and dishwashing. This is especially true when it comes to growing indigenous herbs that have nutritional, therapeutic, and cultural significance. Despite its potential, the acceptance and awareness of greywater reuse for irrigation remains limited. Therefore, this study documents knowledge and perception on the usage of greywater for backyard cultivation of native herbs among residents of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria. A 3-stage random sample techniques was used in this cross-sectional study to select wards/communities, households and 312 respondents to participate. A pretested, semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge (14-point scale) and perception (12-point Likert’s Scale) on the use of greywater for cultivation of local herbs in a backyard garden. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test at α=0.05. Participants’ age was 43.7±16.3 years, 64.4% were male while 39.7% had completed tertiary education. Several (40.4%) of the participants reported that they had heard about use of herbal medicine to control various ailments. The three major herbs mentioned were lemongrass (65.0%), miracle leaf (51.3%) and basil (32.5%). Only 8% of the participants reported they had used greywater in their compound/residence. The mean knowledge score was 6.4±1.8 and 70.7% had poor knowledge about greywater and its use for cultivating local herbs. About twenty percent (19.9%) affirmed that irrigating garden with greywater could save cost while 25.6% agreed that they do not have the expertise to run a garden with the use of greywater for irrigation. The mean perception score was 6.4±1.9 while 61% had the negative perception about greywater and its use for cultivating local herbs. Majority (70.8%) of public servants had negative perception about greywater and its use for cultivating local herbs against the minority – traders, retirees and students. Participants were aware about the use of herbal medicine to control various ailment. However, majority had poor knowledge and negative perception about greywater and its use for cultivating local herbs. Efforts should be made to increase public awareness about greywater and its reuse in order to encourage appropriate management and the adoption of greywater systems for native herbs cultivation.
Abstract: Water scarcity is a growing concern in many metropolitan area, especially in Nigeria. As a result, non-potable uses like irrigation are increasingly depending on alternative water sources. A potential resource for urban gardening is greywater, which is wastewater from domestic tasks like laundry, bathing, and dishwashing. This is especially true wh...
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