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Quirke S, Sá Dos Reis C, McEntee M, Moore MN, England A. An investigation into the current perceptions of Irish Radiographers regarding patient-practitioner communication. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2024; 55:101442. [PMID: 38908133 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2024.101442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many of the tasks performed by radiographers rely on effective communication with patients. This study aims to evaluate radiographers' experiences communicating with patients to determine what communication skills they believe they have, challenges they encounter and any familiarity with communication tools. It also assesses their willingness to accept further training and utilise recognised scripted communication tools, such as AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation and Thank you). METHODS Data were collected using an online survey deployed using the MS Forms platform. The survey consisted of 42 questions: 12 qualitative 'open-ended' questions and 30 'close-ended' quantitative questions. The survey remained open between March and May 2022. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative responses using thematic content analysis. Cross distribution analysis, basic percentages, and graphic bar charts were used for quantitative data analysis. RESULTS One hundred and nine radiographers completed the questionnaire. Quantitative analysis found that 84 % (n = 87) of radiographers had not received additional post-qualification training in patient communication. Five communication themes emerged from the thematic analysis; (1) Expectations, (2) Education, (3) Improvements, (4) Errors, and (5) Communication Tools. The scripted communication tool AIDET, according to 86 % (n = 89) of respondents, was perceived to be potential helpful in improving radiographer-patient interactions. CONCLUSION Radiographers do not believe they have received adequate training for communicating with patients and would like to receive additional training and education. AIDET could be a useful communication tool as a starting guide for less experienced radiographers. There is a need for further studies that explore the use and effectiveness of scripted communication tools in radiographers' communications skills. In addition, additional post-registration training opportunities need to be available for radiographers in patient communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya Quirke
- Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, UGF ASSERT, Brookfield Health Sciences. University College Cork, College Road, Cork, T12 AK54, Ireland
| | - Cláudia Sá Dos Reis
- Department of Radiologic Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Switzerland
| | - Mark McEntee
- Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, UGF ASSERT, Brookfield Health Sciences. University College Cork, College Road, Cork, T12 AK54, Ireland; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Ms Niamh Moore
- Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, UGF ASSERT, Brookfield Health Sciences. University College Cork, College Road, Cork, T12 AK54, Ireland
| | - Andrew England
- Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, UGF ASSERT, Brookfield Health Sciences. University College Cork, College Road, Cork, T12 AK54, Ireland.
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Bonfitto GR, Roletto A, Savardi M, Fasulo SV, Catania D, Signoroni A. Harnessing ChatGPT dialogues to address claustrophobia in MRI - A radiographers' education perspective. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:737-744. [PMID: 38428198 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The healthcare sector invests significantly in communication skills training, but not always with satisfactory results. Recently, generative Large Language Models, have shown promising results in medical education. This study aims to use ChatGPT to simulate radiographer-patient conversations about the critical moment of claustrophobia management during MRI, exploring how Artificial Intelligence can improve radiographers' communication skills. METHODS This study exploits specifically designed prompts on ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4 to generate simulated conversations between virtual claustrophobic patients and six radiographers with varying levels of work experience focusing on their differences in model size and language generation capabilities. Success rates and responses were analysed. The methods of radiographers in convincing virtual patients to undergo MRI despite claustrophobia were also evaluated. RESULTS A total of 60 simulations were conducted, achieving a success rate of 96.7% (58/60). ChatGPT-3.5 exhibited errors in 40% (12/30) of the simulations, while ChatGPT-4 showed no errors. In terms of radiographers' communication during the simulations, out of 164 responses, 70.2% (115/164) were categorized as "Supportive Instructions," followed by "Music Therapy" at 18.3% (30/164). Experts mainly used "Supportive Instructions" (82.2%, 51/62) and "Breathing Techniques" (9.7%, 6/62). Intermediate participants favoured "Music Therapy" (26%, 13/50), while Beginner participants frequently utilized "Mild Sedation" (15.4%, 8/52). CONCLUSION The simulation of clinical scenarios via ChatGPT proves valuable in assessing and testing radiographers' communication skills, especially in managing claustrophobic patients during MRI. This pilot study highlights the potential of ChatGPT in preclinical training, recognizing different training needs at different levels of professional experience. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This study is relevant in radiography practice, where AI is increasingly widespread, as it explores a new way to improve the training of radiographers.
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Affiliation(s)
- G R Bonfitto
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - A Roletto
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - M Savardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25121, Brescia, Italy.
| | - S V Fasulo
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - D Catania
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - A Signoroni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25121, Brescia, Italy.
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Hazell LJ, Smith M. Parent's perceptions of paediatric care in two radiology departments within Johannesburg, South Africa. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:659-665. [PMID: 38354686 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A referral to the Radiology department may be a very frightening, and at times a stressful experience for a child and their parents. The radiographer plays an important role as a healthcare professional to simultaneously produce high-quality diagnostic X-ray images and facilitate a high standard of care in a limited timeframe. METHODS The purpose of this qualitative, phenomenological study was thus to explore and describe parents' perceptions of paediatric care in two Radiology departments within Gauteng. A total of 12 semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with parents, until data saturation was achieved. RESULTS Braun and Clarke's six-step thematic analysis was used which unveiled three themes: 1) Recognition of overall positive, high standard of care received by paediatrics who underwent an X-ray examination 2) Limitations prohibiting a caring environment 3) The need for parent-centered paediatric care through the implementation of Family Centered Care (FCC). CONCLUSION Overall, there was positive feedback from the parents' perspectives and general satisfaction with the quality of care received by the child whilst in the Radiology department. Although there were some negative categories particularly referring to an unknown environment, parents overall appreciated the qualities of caring and effective communication that the radiographers displayed during their visit. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The lack of literature regarding parents' perceptions of paediatric care within the context of radiography led to the current study. Recommendations for future best practice would be incorporating the concept of FCC within the curriculum of the radiography degree to improve overall patient and parent satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Hazell
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, Cnr Siemert and Beit Streets, Doornfontein, PO Box 17011 Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - M Smith
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, Cnr Siemert and Beit Streets, Doornfontein, PO Box 17011 Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
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The why, who, how, and what of communicating CT radiation risks to patients and healthcare providers. ABDOMINAL RADIOLOGY (NEW YORK) 2023; 48:1514-1525. [PMID: 36799998 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-022-03778-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) has witnessed tremendous growth in utilization. Despite its immense benefits, there is a growing concern from the general public and the medical community about the detrimental consequences of ionizing radiation from CT. Anxiety from the perceived risks associated with CT can deter referring physicians from ordering clinically indicated CT scans and patients from undergoing medically necessary exams. This article discusses various strategies for educating patients and healthcare providers on the benefits and risks of CT scanning and salient techniques for effective communication.
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Framework for health care quality and evidence-based practice in radiology departments: A regional study on radiographer's perceptions. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2022; 53:648-658. [PMID: 36184270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The main goals of this study were to describe, in an integrated and multidimensional way, the conditions related to the quality of care in radiology departments from Algarve (Portugal), to assess the perspective of radiographers on the use of scientific evidence in clinical practice and to validate a model that characterizes the conditions for continuous improvement. METHODS A cross sectional study was performed in four radiology departments from public and private healthcare facilities from Algarve region (Portugal). A paper-based survey was sent to all radiographers to assess the quality systems implemented in their radiology departments and their perspective on the use of scientific evidence in clinical practice. RESULTS In total, 62 radiographers (61.4%) completed the survey. The quality dimensions that obtained the highest degree of compliance were the existence of quality assurance and improvement activities (43.0%), existence of standards in clinical practice of radiographers (42.7%) and the existence of special provisions (37.6%). The quality dimension related to patient's involvement was the one with the lowest level of compliance. Moreover, from the radiographers perspective, positive responses were obtained related to evidence-based actions (83.0%), sources of evidence (76.0%) and the significance of research activities (74.0%). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that a new framework based on four factors (Support for Information; Organizational Capability to Technical Quality of Care; Patient Involvement and Evidence-Based Radiology), should be considered in the establishment of strategic policies that better define the provision of diagnostic procedures and professional practices in radiology departments from Algarve region, based on quality improvement systems and better patient safety. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE There is a need to include patients in the decision-making process, to involve radiographers in quality assurance and improvement activities and to implement quality monitoring mechanisms within radiology departments under study.
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Abstract
Medical imaging professionals have an accountability for both quality and safety in the care of patients that have unexpected or anticipated repeated imaging examinations that use ionizing radiation. One measure in the safety realm for repeated imaging is cumulative effective dose (CED). CED has been increasingly scrutinized in patient populations, including adults and children. Recognizing the challenges with effective dose, including the cumulative nature, effective dose is still the most prevalent exposure currency for recurrent imaging examinations. While the responsibility for dose monitoring incorporates an element of tracking an individual patient cumulative radiation record, a more complex aspect is what should be done with this information. This challenge also differs between the pediatric and adult population, including the fact that high cumulative doses (e.g.,>100 mSv) are reported to occur much less frequently in children than in the adult population. It is worthwhile, then, to review the general construct of CED, including the comparison between the relative percentage occurrence in adult and pediatric populations, the relevant pediatric medical settings in which high CED occurs, the advances in medical care that may affect CED determinations in the future, and offer proposals for the application of the CED paradigm, considering the unique aspects of pediatric care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Frush
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
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Diagnostic radiographers' experiences when interacting with the custodians of paediatric patients presenting for general radiographic imaging. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27:1021-1026. [PMID: 33895081 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiographic imaging of children presents several complexities, one of which includes their reliance on an adult to take care of them. Literature reports on investigations that focused on interactions of healthcare professionals with children and their parents or guardians in the healthcare setting, but little is known about radiographers' interactions with different custodians of paediatric patients. This study sought to explore and describe the experiences of radiographers with the different custodians of paediatric patients and assess how these custodians contribute to the outcomes of radiographic examinations. METHODS A qualitative, exploratory descriptive design was undertaken. Purposive sampling was used to select 25 radiographers from four health institutions in the Tshwane region of South Africa. Semi-structured interviews, audiotapes and field notes were used to collect data. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the transcribed data. RESULTS The following three themes emerged, namely; a) communication with different custodians, b) a radiographer's role in suspected physical abuse (SPA) and c) radiographers' responsibilities and associated radiation concerns. CONCLUSION Radiographers experienced different communication and interaction challenges in the imaging department with various custodians of paediatric patients. These impacted service deliveries. The paediatric patient's reaction in the imaging room might further affect the interaction between the radiographer and the custodian. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE There is a need for further studies that explore the concerns that radiographers have regarding their limited role in SPA. In addition, the study also adds to increasing awareness of both health professionals and the general public on radiation protection and safety.
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Developing communication support for interaction with children during acute radiographic procedures. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 26:96-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Schroderus-Salo T, Hirvonen L, Henner A, Ahonen S, Kääriäinen M, Miettunen J, Mikkonen K. Development and validation of a psychometric scale for assessing healthcare professionals' knowledge in radiation protection. Radiography (Lond) 2019; 25:136-142. [PMID: 30955686 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2018.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Healthcare professionals must sufficiently understand ionising radiation and the associated protection measures to avoid unnecessarily exposing patients and staff to ionising radiation. Hence, a proper safety culture is important to lowering health risks. The development and establishment of an instrument that can indicate healthcare professionals' understanding/knowledge of radiation protection concepts can greatly contribute to a good safety culture. The purpose of the present study was to develop and psychometrically test the Healthcare Professional Knowledge of Radiation Protection (HPKRP) self-evaluation scale, which was designed to measure the knowledge level of radiation protection by healthcare professionals working with ionising radiation in a clinical environment. METHODS The presented research employed a cross-sectional study design. Data were collected from eight Finnish hospitals in 2017. A total of 252 eligible nurses responded to the newly developed HPKRP scale. The face and content validity were tested with the Content Validity Index (CVI). Explorative factor analysis was used to test construct validity, whereas reliability was tested with Cronbach's alpha. RESULTS Overall S-CVI for the HPKRP scale was 0.83. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a three-factor model for the HcPCRP scale containing 33 items. The first factor was defined by Radiation physics and principles of radiation usage, the second factor by Radiation protection, and the third factor by Guidelines of safe ionising radiation usage. These three factors explained 72% of the total variance. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the scale ranged from 0.93 to 0.96. CONCLUSION The results provide strong evidence for the validity and reliability of the HPKRP scale. Additionally, educators can use the scale to evaluate healthcare students' understanding in radiation safety before and after education.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Schroderus-Salo
- Research Unit of Nursing Science and Health Management, University of Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
| | - L Hirvonen
- Research Unit of Nursing Science and Health Management, University of Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
| | - A Henner
- Degree Programme in Radiography and Radiation Therapy, Oulu University of Applied Sciences, Kiviharjuntie 4, 90220 Oulu, Finland.
| | - S Ahonen
- Academic Affairs, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - M Kääriäinen
- Research Unit of Nursing Science and Health Management, University of Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - J Miettunen
- Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - K Mikkonen
- Research Unit of Nursing Science and Health Management, University of Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
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Parents' received and expected information about their child's radiation exposure during radiographic examinations. Pediatr Radiol 2019; 49:155-161. [PMID: 30426180 PMCID: PMC6334726 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-018-4300-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite regulations, insufficient information is provided to adult patients prior to their radiologic examinations. Information regarding paediatric patients has not been systematically studied. OBJECTIVE To survey parents' experience and wishes for information in connection with their child's radiographic examination. MATERIALS AND METHODS We provided a questionnaire to consenting parents of children younger than 12 years old at a university hospital. The questionnaire asked parents about the information obtained from the referrer prior to the radiograph, the chance to discuss with the referrer and their wishes regarding future information. Forty-one parents responded to the survey. Twenty-five children were referred for radiography of extremities, the others for dental, body and skull examinations. RESULTS Altogether 34/41 (83%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 69-91%) parents said they received adequate information on the purpose of the examination, 8/35 (23%, 95% CI 12-39%) on other options and 3/41 (7%, 95% CI 3-19%) on radiation dose. Ten of 41 parents (24%, 95% CI 12-40%) said they were aware of radiation exposure. The number of previous radiology examinations was not sufficiently discussed. The communication was scored as mean 6.5 (95% CI 5.8-7.1) on a scale from 4 (poor) to 10 (excellent). Thirty-eight of 40 (95%, 95% CI 84-99%) of parents expected information on the purpose, 35/40 (88%, 95% CI 74-95%) on radiation dose and 31/40 (78%, 95% CI 63-88%) on other options. Symbols of radiation and corresponding period of natural background radiation are preferred to convey the dose. A referrer is the preferred source of information. CONCLUSION Parents did not feel adequately informed prior to their child's radiographic examination. Parents expect more information about the purpose, dose and alternative tests.
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