Computed tomography scanner census and adult head dose in Nigeria

Computed tomography scanners distinctly located in Nigeria were 183. The first installation in the country was in 1987, suggestive of an annual average of 6 installations. Dose from different facilities showed wide variations. The establishment of national diagnostic reference levels (nDRLs) to reduce arbitrariness in dose administration is imperative. While this is awaited, radiographers have a moral and ethical obligation to pay more attention to optimization of patient protection.