Radiological Protection in Veterinary Medicine Services in Aracaju: Sanitary Inspection Observations

Abstract

Veterinary medicine is subject to radiological practices. In recent years, the use of radiography and computed tomography in veterinary medicine has increased. For this use, it is necessary to take care of radiological protection, as required by Resolution RDC nº 611. This work discusses the main radioprotection non-conformities observed in veterinary radiology establishments in Aracaju, SE, based on data obtained during surveillance inspection Municipal Sanitary Service that took place in 2023. In this city, these services had not been inspected for 10 years. Among the non-conformities, the lack of use of radiation protective clothing (VPR) and personal dosimeters by professionals was identified. A literature review revealed that some of these problems were recurring in other cities and countries. In order to understand the training of these professionals, the curricula of the subjects of one of the veterinary courses offered in Aracaju were analyzed, noting the absence of the topic of radiological protection in its content. In this way, the lack of knowledge on radiological protection identified in the practices of these trained professionals can be justified. Therefore, actions to promote training in radiological protection practices and more frequent health inspections are necessary to raise awareness among veterinarians about radiological safety and to keep veterinary institutions in compliance with the guidelines for the organization and proper functioning of diagnostic radiology services.