Evaluation of Nigerian radiographers' knowledge and perception of public service rules

ABSTRACT Background: The Public Service Rules (PSR) constitute the administrative, legal, and ethical framework governing discipline, accountability, and professional conduct in Nigeria's public healthcare sector. Adequate knowledge of these rules is essential for health professionals, including radiographers, working in public institutions. This study assessed the knowledge and perception of the PSR among practising radiographers in Nigeria. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among registered, licensed, and practising radiographers in Nigeria from early September 2025 to mid-August 2026. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed: Stage 1 comprised stratified random selection of healthcare institutions across the six geopolitical zones; Stage 2 involved random sampling of eligible radiographers within selected institutions. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire administered electronically via Google Forms in professional platforms. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of the PSR, perceptions of the PSR, and exposure to PSR training. Data from 366 respondents were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS version 27.0. Frequencies, percentages, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were used. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most respondents were male (254, 69.4%), aged 25–34 years (214, 58.5%), and registered radiographers (330, 90.2%). Knowledge of broad PSR provisions was high: 364 (99.5%) correctly identified the main purpose of the PSR, 354 (96.7%) identified the appropriate disciplinary authority, 364 (99.5%) correctly identified the required procedure for taking leave, and 360 (98.4%) recognised the right to a fair hearing in disciplinary proceedings. Knowledge of abscondment from duty was also high (346, 94.5%). Perceptions were generally positive: 352 (96.2%) considered the PSR an essential guide for ethical conduct, while 358 (97.8%) agreed that regular PSR training would improve compliance. Nevertheless, 238 (65.0%) reported that they had never received PSR orientation or training. Subgroup analysis revealed no significant difference in overall knowledge between those who had received formal training and those who had not; however, trained respondents scored significantly higher on conflict-of-interest (95.3% vs 88.2%, p = 0.042) and abscondment (98.4% vs 92.4%, p = 0.021) items. Binary logistic regression showed that receiving formal PSR training (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.10–4.17; p = 0.025) and having ≥ 11 years of professional experience (OR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.02–5.06; p = 0.045) were significant predictors of good knowledge. Conclusion: Nigerian radiographers demonstrated strong knowledge of broad PSR principles and generally positive perceptions of the rules, but substantial gaps in formal orientation and regular consultation with the PSR remain. Institutions and professional regulators should strengthen structured induction, continuing professional development, and access to current PSR documents. Keywords: Public Service Rules; radiographers; knowledge; perception; professional conduct; public service; healthcare governance