Research reduces radiation risk A radiographer at Greenslopes Private Hospital has helped to reduce the risk of brain cancer, vascular ageing, and cataract formation among nursing staff through her research in the cardiovascular suites. Kelly Wilson-Stewart measured radiation exposure to the heads of staff during diagnostic and interventional cardiac angiography, using a grant from the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation. Mrs Wilson-Stewart originally wanted to ascertain whether staff were operating within the new recommended dose limit to the eyes of 20mSv per year. “Approximately seven months after the commencement of the project it was quite obvious that the scrub nurses were receiving a significantly greater dose during radially accessed cases than during femorally accessed ones,” said Mrs Wilson-Stewart. After discussing possible reasons for this increased exposure and viable solutions to address it, it was suggested the position of the ceiling-mounted lead shield might be affecting the level of protection. “As a result, the doctor was more conscious of the orientation of the lead shield and made an effort to alter the position to more adequately protect the scrub nurse,” said Mrs Wilson-Stewart. The radiographer then examined the average head dose to nurses after this change in practice, noting a significant decrease from 3.09 μSv to 1.8 μSv per case. “I am very happy to have played a role in reducing the risk to the wonderful nursing staff who care for patients during angiography cases. Whilst they are saving lives, we are now doing better to protect theirs.” Mrs Wilson-Stewart hopes her research can be used in other hospitals: “I feel that one of the main reasons to perform research is to assist others in applying evidence-based practice through dissemination of results and my professional colleagues have been supportive in this goal.” greenslopesprivate.com.au | 11 Prostate cancer nurse takes up rocky challenge The prospect of observing breathtaking scenery during a week-long drive around the south island of New Zealand sounds like an ideal holiday. But would you still fancy the notion if you were travelling 3,000km on largely unsealed roads? And what if your vehicle was an old, cheap, very unreliable car? That was the challenge taken up by Chris McNamara, the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse at Greenslopes Private Hospital. He joined more than 150 people for an annual car rally which raises money for cancer research. The aim was to drive cars worth no more than $NZ 1,700 through some tough terrain. “Most of the cars did not start, had bald tyres, and a mechanical failure list as long as my arm,” said Mr McNamara. His team bought a white 1997 Mitsubishi Legnum station wagon for $NZ 4,500. Their funds went directly to men’s cancer projects with the Cancer Council Australia. Mr McNamara said the scariest moment of the rally was driving through Dansey’s Pass, negotiating steep cliffs, rocks, and soft gravel passes. “Many of the cars in the rally came off second best … this year there were 10 out of 70 cars that did not make it to the end.” On the last day, all teams held a memorial service to remember lost loved ones. “One of the other team members had lost his father back in England to cancer while he was partaking in the rally. About 50% of the people in the teams were either currently going through cancer treatment or had just finished their treatment.” Mr McNamara said the rally was intended to be both emotionally and physically challenging, to signify a cancer journey. “This trip made me realise how important the role of a passionate, educated specialist nurse is for many patients. Listening to some of their stories of lack of support and education was astounding to me.” “Navigating any cancer journey without someone like this really does make it a rollercoaster of emotions, leading to poor self-esteem and depression.” Mr McNamara is one of only 28 Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses in Australia. For more information about the service, visit greenslopesprivate.com.au
GPH News April 2017
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