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Mtombeni K, Hazell L, Mokoena L. Diagnostic radiographers' perceptions of professional identity in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. J Med Radiat Sci 2024; 71:142-149. [PMID: 37950360 PMCID: PMC10920935 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.737] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The study explored and described the professional identity of diagnostic radiographers in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. METHODS The methodology employed for the study was qualitative, exploratory and descriptive design. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with thirteen diagnostic radiographers from private, public practices and individually owned practices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the responses underwent thematic analysis and used Braun and Clarke's six steps for analysing qualitative data. RESULTS The thematic analysis revealed three themes and six categories. The three themes identified were: perceptions of identity, environment influences and organisational institutions. CONCLUSION This study provided an insight into the current perspectives of the professional identity of diagnostic radiographers in Johannesburg, South Africa, which reflected a positive professional identity. The three themes identified could inform guidelines for education in diagnostic radiographers' professional identity in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keleabetswe Mtombeni
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of JohannesburgRooderpoortSouth Africa
| | - Lynne Hazell
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of JohannesburgRooderpoortSouth Africa
| | - Louisa Mokoena
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of JohannesburgRooderpoortSouth Africa
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Najjar R. Radiology's Ionising Radiation Paradox: Weighing the Indispensable Against the Detrimental in Medical Imaging. Cureus 2023; 15:e41623. [PMID: 37435015 PMCID: PMC10331516 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Ionising radiation stands as an indispensable protagonist in the narrative of medical imaging, underpinning diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic interventions across an array of medical conditions. However, this protagonist poses a paradox - its inestimable service to medicine coexists with an undercurrent of potential health risks, primarily DNA damage and subsequent oncogenesis. The narrative of this comprehensive review unfurls around this intricate enigma, delicately balancing the indispensable diagnostic utility against the non-negotiable commitment to patient safety. In this critical discourse, the intricacies of ionising radiation are dissected, illuminating not only its sources but also the associated biological and health hazards. The exploration delves into the labyrinth of strategies currently deployed to minimise exposure and safeguard patients. By casting light on the scientific nuances of X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and nuclear medicine, it traverses the complex terrain of radiation use in radiology, to promote safer medical imaging practices, and to facilitate an ongoing dialogue about diagnostic necessity and risk. Through a rigorous examination, the pivotal relationship between radiation dose and dose response is elucidated, unravelling the mechanisms of radiation injury and distinguishing between deterministic and stochastic effects. Moreover, protection strategies are illuminated, demystifying concepts such as justification, optimisation, the As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) principle, dose and diagnostic reference levels, along with administrative and regulatory approaches. With an eye on the horizon, promising avenues of future research are discussed. These encompass low-radiation imaging techniques, long-term risk assessment in large patient cohorts, and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in dose optimisation. This exploration of the nuanced complexities of radiation use in radiology aims to foster a collaborative impetus towards safer medical imaging practices. It underscores the need for an ongoing dialogue around diagnostic necessity and risk, thereby advocating for a continual reassessment in the narrative of medical imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reabal Najjar
- Medical Imaging, Canberra Hospital, Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Health, Canberra, AUS
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Gonzalez DL, Sáez EA, Ansó JE, Bravo JG, Aldomà CS, Gayán LR, Dapère TM, Pérez de la Ossa P. Analysis of Spanish vocational radiographers' education through clinical training and perceptions of core subject teachers: A survey. Radiography (Lond) 2023; 29:668-674. [PMID: 37148708 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2023.04.002] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This work presents a prospective analysis of the key aspects involved in the Spanish radiographer's perception of the weaknesses of the current educational curriculum in terms of teaching staff's qualifications and composition in the clinical training and core subjects. The goal is to show clinical training and professional's perception of the teaching quality and to characterise the weakness detected within the context of the European radiographer's academic system. METHODS The perception of the quality of the training received by the professionals was collected through an anonymous survey. A total of 758 valid responses were received, and were analysed to three hypotheses: the variability of the teachers' qualifications in the core subjects, the variability in terms of internships time carried out by the students, and assessment about teaching quality of the teachers. RESULTS The results prove there is a huge variability and little academic affinity of the teachers' degrees with the core subjects. On the other hand, the results shows there is a scarcity of clinical training hours in Spain, especially compared to European standards. It was demonstrated that teachers with a specific radiographer degree obtained the best scores. CONCLUSION It is mandatory to adjust the criteria for selecting clinical imaging teachers to improve the teaching quality in Spain and increase the clinical training period of the Spanish radiographers to match their European counterparts. IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE Improving the training of Spanish radiographers will contribute to standardising the training quality of the whole European profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- D L Gonzalez
- Metropolitana Sur IDI. University Bellvitge Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - E A Sáez
- Fundación CIEN. Madrid, Carlos III Health Institute, Spain.
| | - J E Ansó
- National Distance Education University, Pamplona, Spain.
| | | | - C S Aldomà
- Sant Hospital Foundation, Seu D'Urgell-Lleida, Spain.
| | - L R Gayán
- Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - T M Dapère
- Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain.
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Partner A, England A, Young R, Shiner N, Bridge P. Post COVID-19 trends in simulation use within diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy education. Radiography (Lond) 2023; 29:684-689. [PMID: 37187065 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2023.04.018] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Simulation is used within medical radiation science training. Recent global events and simulation resource uptake has led to significant changes. The aim of this study was to capture post COVID-19 trends and activity of simulation-based education (SBE) in diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy. METHODS An online survey was designed to investigate the role of simulation within diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy education. Survey design was based on literature and experience within the research team. Questions were based around access and use of simulation, future trends and the effects of COVID-19. Participants were diagnostic radiography and/or radiation therapy educators. Data captured in this study was undertaken in March 2022 and compared with previous data from Bridge and colleagues (2021). RESULTS Sixty-seven responses were received across five continents (two from North/South America), Europe was the most widely represented (n = 58, 87%). Fifty-three (79%) of participants reported that they use simulation as part of their teaching and learning. Twenty-seven (51%) respondents reported that they had increased their use of simulation because of COVID-19. Sixteen (30%) respondents stated that they were now able to enrol more students because of the pandemic. Fixed models and immersive environments were the two most common simulation activities. Participants reported, to different degrees, that simulation was used across all parts of the curriculum. CONCLUSIONS Simulation is deeply embedded into diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy education. Evidence suggests that the growth of simulation may be slowing. Opportunities exist for the development of guidance, training and best practice resources around simulation. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Simulation is a key pedagogical approach for diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy education. Key stakeholders now need to work collaboratively to define standards and best practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Partner
- Discipline of Diagnostic Imaging, University of Derby, UK
| | - A England
- Discipline of Medical Imaging & Radiation Therapy, University College Cork, Ireland.
| | - R Young
- Discipline of Medical Imaging & Radiation Therapy, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - N Shiner
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Keele University, UK
| | - P Bridge
- School of Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
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Wallin A, Bazzi M, Ringdal M, Ahlberg K, Lundén M. Radiographers' perception of patient safety culture in radiology. Radiography (Lond) 2023; 29:610-616. [PMID: 37086589 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiographers play a central role in patient safety because of their knowledge of and responsibilities in relation to the imaging process. To maintain safe care, the workplace must create a safety culture that enables sustainable safety work. AIM This study aims to describe radiographers' perceptions of the patient safety culture in radiology units in Sweden. METHODS The Swedish Hospital Survey of Patients' Safety Culture (S-HSOPSC) was used to gather descriptive data from 171 Swedish registered radiographers working in five radiology clinics distributed across 15 units. Fifty-one questionnaire items and one open-ended question were analysed, comprising perceptions of the overall safety grade, the frequency of number of reported risks and events, and 14 composites regarding patient safety dimensions. RESULTS The radiographers' concerns surrounding the patient safety culture in their workplaces related to weaknesses regarding the safety dimensions "Staffing", "Frequency of error reporting", "Organizational learning - continuous improvement" and "Executive management support for patient safety". They perceived "Teamwork within the unit" to be a strength. CONCLUSION Despite some weaknesses in the patient safety culture, the radiographers perceived that the overall patient safety level was good, in part because of their ability to spot risks in time. The executive management, however, needed to improve their feedback on safety measures; and another reason for some weaknesses in the patient safety culture could be staffing issues such as lack of time for meetings for continuous improvement. Managers and leaders have a great responsibility to establish a patient safety culture through support and good leadership. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE An understanding of what creates a safety culture is important to prevent patient safety incidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Wallin
- Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - M Bazzi
- Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - M Ringdal
- Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - K Ahlberg
- Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - M Lundén
- Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
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Smith M, Innes S, Wildman S, Baker D. A proposed framework for point of care musculoskeletal ultrasound and ultrasound image-guided interventions by physiotherapists: scope of practice, education and governance. Ultrasound J 2023; 15:15. [PMID: 36939971 PMCID: PMC10027973 DOI: 10.1186/s13089-023-00311-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of point of care ultrasound (PoCUS) in the management of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders is a diverse area of PoCUS practice. Its use by clinicians, such as physiotherapists, can occur across a wide range of roles and care pathway configurations; however, professional, educational and regulatory uncertainties can leave clinicians, managers and patients at risk. MAIN BODY A PoCUS framework approach (previously applied to support PoCUS consolidation and expansion) is used to frame these proposals. Central to this is the defining of (clinical and sonographic) scope of practice (ScoP). A number of indicative ScoPs are described to both (i) illustrate application of the principles and (ii) provide templates for ScoP derivations for individual services or clinicians. Image-guided MSK interventions are increasingly an aspect of MSK physiotherapy PoCUS. Given the utility of physiotherapists drawing upon their imaging to fully inform the selection (and performance) of such techniques, we present a rationale for competency in undertaking sonographic differentials as a pre-cursor to performing ultrasound image-guided MSK interventions. Alignment of ScoP with the relevant education and formal competency assessments are a cornerstone of the PoCUS framework approach; as such, key aspects of MSK PoCUS education and competency assessment are outlined. Strategies for addressing such requirements in healthcare settings where formal provision is not accessible, are also presented. Governance considerations are aligned with the regulatory environment, including those pertaining to professional guidance and insurance considerations. In addition, generic quality assurance elements are emphasised, as core aspects of high-quality service provision. Whilst the paper clarifies the situation for MSK physiotherapists using PoCUS in the UK, prompts are provided to support other professional groups working in MSK services in the United Kingdom (UK) and MSK physiotherapists/physical therapists in other countries-to facilitate their application of the principles. CONCLUSION Acknowledging the breadth of MSK physiotherapy PoCUS practice, this paper draws upon a framework approach to provide integrated ScoP, education/competency and governance solutions, along with mechanisms for other professions working with MSK PoCUS-and physiotherapists/physical therapists outside of the UK-to consolidate and expand their practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Smith
- School of Healthcare Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Sue Innes
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Stuart Wildman
- Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guilford, UK
- Brunel University, London, UK
| | - David Baker
- Brunel University, London, UK
- Complete Physio Limited, London, UK
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Lewis S, Downing C, Hayre CM. Radiation Protection among South African Diagnostic Radiographers-A Mixed Method Study. HEALTH PHYSICS 2023; 124:208-216. [PMID: 36719936 PMCID: PMC9855727 DOI: 10.1097/hp.0000000000001655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Worldwide, radiographers' radiation protection practices vary. In South Africa, evidence of diagnostic radiographers' suboptimal radiation protection practices has been reported, but the reasons for these practices and suggestions to improve practices were lacking. Therefore, this study explored radiation protection among South African diagnostic radiographers. This study used an explanatory, sequential, mixed-method approach. Data were collected in three phases. Phase I, the quantitative phase, used an online questionnaire and respondents from Phase I interested in participating in Phase II, the qualitative phase, were interviewed, yielding 13 in-depth semi-structured telephone interviews. In Phase III, eight radiography managers co-constructed change strategies to optimize radiation protection in South Africa in two focus group interviews. Radiation protection was suboptimal despite diagnostic radiographers having a good attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioral control toward radiation protection and optimal radiation protection knowledge. Varying attitudes to radiation protection, lack of resources, and support from radiography management and healthcare teams contributed to suboptimal radiation protection practices. Radiography managers suggested increasing radiation protection awareness, ameliorating the diminished stature of the radiographer in the healthcare team, and increasing the availability of optimal quality resources. South African diagnostic radiographers' radiation protection knowledge was optimal, but the implementation of radiation protection varied and was influenced by multiple factors. A radiation protection culture supported by management is advocated to optimize radiation protection. However, ultimately radiation protection practices are incumbent on the individual radiographers' choice to practice radiation protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shantel Lewis
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 6306a John Orr Building, Doornfontein, Corner Simert and Biet St., Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Charlene Downing
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Office 6105D, West Wing North, John Orr Building, Doornfontein Campus, Corner Siemert and Biet St., Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Christopher M. Hayre
- School of Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, College of Medicine and Health, Room 1.32, South Cloisters, Devon, 79 Heavitree Rd., Exeter EX1 2LT, United Kingdom
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Sheikhtaheri A, Hasani N, Hosseini A. Effect of picture archiving and communication system on diagnosis accuracy in CT and radiography examinations in emergency departments. Int J Med Inform 2023; 170:104972. [PMID: 36566536 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2022.104972] [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: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Picture archiving and communication system (PACS) affects the radiologists' and physicians' performance. We aimed to evaluate the effect of implementing PACS on the emergency department (ED) physicians' accuracy compared to a radiologist's diagnosis in Iran. METHODS We retrospectively collected data for three six-month periods before and after the implementation of PACS on CT scan and radiography examinations. We compared ED physicians' diagnoses of CT scan and radiography images with a radiologist's interpretations for the same images. We compared 374 CT scans and 346 radiography examinations before implementing PACS (July 2015 to December 2015); 507 CT scans and 480 radiography examinations immediately after PACS (July 2016 to December 2016); and 870 CT scans and 1137 radiography examinations one year after PACS (July 2017 to December 2017). RESULTS We found that diagnosis accuracy of ED physicians on CT scans increased from 75.9 % before implementing PACS to 84.4 % immediately after PACS and 94.9 % one year after PACS (p-value < 0.0001). Diagnosis accuracy for radiography images increased from 63.0 % before implementing PACS to 80.2 % immediately after PACS and 93.1 % one year after PACS (p-value < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Implementation of PACS technology increases ED physicians' diagnosis accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Sheikhtaheri
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Najmeh Hasani
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - AghaFatemeh Hosseini
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Alyousef K, Assiri A, Almutairi S, Aldalham T, Felimban G. Awareness of Radiation Protection and Common Radiation Dose Levels Among Healthcare Workers. GLOBAL JOURNAL ON QUALITY AND SAFETY IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 6:1-5. [PMID: 37260860 PMCID: PMC10229030 DOI: 10.36401/jqsh-22-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Access to ionizing radiation has become widely available for diagnosis and treatment. The increased use of ionizing radiation has been associated with radiation exposure hazards for patients and radiation workers. Raising the level of radiation protection awareness is important to maintain the safety of healthcare settings. Methods Online questionnaires were distributed to 755 healthcare workers and students at King Abdulaziz Medical City and King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire consisted of 14 multiple-choice questions divided into two sections (questions related to radiation protection and common radiologic examination doses). Results In total, 443 participants completed the questionnaire, including 142 (32%) medical students, 107 (24%) radiology technologists, 105 (24%) radiography students, and 89 (20%) physicians. Of the participants, 245 (55%) were men. A total of 74 (84%) physicians and 51 (47%) radiology technologists had more than 5 years of experience. Eleven (12%) physicians and 44 (41%) radiology technologists had 1-4 years of experience, whereas the rest had less than 1 year of experience. Only 16% of participants attended training courses on a regular basis. However, 15% of the participants thought that they had excellent knowledge of radiation protection, whereas 18% admitted that they did not have sufficient knowledge. Sixty-two percent of the questions related to radiation protection awareness were answered correctly. Forty-five percent of the participants correctly answered questions related to doses from common radiologic examinations. Only 23% and 16% of participants were aware of the noncontrast chest CT and lumbar x-ray doses, respectively. Moreover, 35% and 24% of participants did not know that pelvic MRI and abdominal ultrasound do not contribute any radiation dose, respectively. Conclusion The results showed a knowledge gap regarding radiation protection and dose levels; therefore, periodic refresher courses are recommended for healthcare workers in order to increase the level of awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amjad Assiri
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samiah Almutairi
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thekra Aldalham
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghadah Felimban
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Lewis DS, Downing PC, Hayre D. South African radiography leadership co-constructing radiation protection change ideas. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2022; 53:248-255. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2022.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Hasani N, Hosseini A, Sheikhtaheri A. Effect of Implementation of Picture Archiving and Communication System on Radiologist Reporting Time and Utilization of Radiology Services: A Case Study in Iran. J Digit Imaging 2021; 33:595-601. [PMID: 31898036 DOI: 10.1007/s10278-019-00314-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to determine the effect of PACS implementation on the radiologist reporting time and utilization of radiology services in a hospital in Iran. This study was conducted in three 6-month periods (before PACS implementation, immediately after the implementation, and 1 year after implementation). Data related to reporting time of CT examinations were collected from 5074 patients with 6613 examinations and compared using the Friedman test. The utilization rate of radiology services was conducted about CT scans and radiographies. Therefore, 17,862 patients with 36,321 radiographies and 7155 patients with 10,571 CT scans were evaluated, and the ratio of the number of examinations to the number of patients and patient days was compared in three periods. The mean of reporting time on CT scan examinations in the period of immediately after PACS was changed compared to the period of before PACS from 13.05 to 24.18 days and compared to 1 year after PACS implementation, to 4.14 days (P value < 0.05). The utilization rate in CT scans, 1 year after PACS increased at least 10% to 25% compared to the immediately after PACS and before implementing PACS. The utilization rate in radiographies, 1 year after PACS, increased at least 16% to 78% compared to the immediately after PACS and before PACS implementation. In conclusion, the mean of the radiologist reporting time for CT scans is significantly decreased by PACS in the long-term. Additionally, the utilization rate of radiology services is increased in the short- and long-term after PACS implementation in most examinations of CT scan and radiography examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najmeh Hasani
- School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - AghaFatemeh Hosseini
- School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Abbas Sheikhtaheri
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Magnetic resonance imaging incidents are severely underreported: a finding in a multicentre interview survey. Eur Radiol 2021; 32:477-488. [PMID: 34286376 PMCID: PMC8660737 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-08160-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this study was to develop a procedure to investigate the occurrence, character and causes of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging incidents. Methods A semi-structured questionnaire was developed containing details such as safety zones, examination complexity, staff MR knowledge, staff categories, and implementation of EU directive 2013/35. We focused on formally reported incidents that had occurred during 2014–2019, and unreported incidents during one year. Thirteen clinical MR units were visited, and the managing radiographer was interviewed. Open questions were analysed using conventionally adopted content analysis. Results Thirty-seven written reports for 5 years and an additional 12 oral reports for 1 year were analysed. Only 38% of the incidents were reported formally. Some of these incidents were catastrophic. Negative correlations were observed between the number of annual incidents (per scanner) and staff MR knowledge (Spearman’s rho − 0.41, p < 0.05) as well as the number of MR physicists per scanner (− 0.48, p < 0.05). It was notable that only half of the sites had implemented the EU directive. Quotes like ‘Burns are to be expected in MR’ and not even knowing the name of the incident reporting system suggested an inadequate safety culture. Finally, there was a desire among staff for MR safety education. Conclusions MR-related incidents were greatly underreported, and some incidents could have had catastrophic outcomes. There is a great desire among radiographers to enhance the safety culture, but to achieve this, much more accessible education is required, as well as focused involvement of the management of the operations. Key Points • Only one in three magnetic resonance–related incidents were reported. • Several magnetic resonance incidents could have led to catastrophic consequences. • Much increased knowledge about magnetic resonance safety is needed by radiologists and radiographers. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00330-021-08160-w.
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Tarkiainen T, Haapea M, Liukkonen E, Tervonen O, Turpeinen M, Niinimäki J. Adverse events due to unnecessary radiation exposure in medical imaging reported in Finland. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 26:e195-e200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Patients', radiographers' and radiography students' experiences of 360° virtual counselling environment for the coronary computed tomography angiography: A qualitative study. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 27:381-388. [PMID: 33046372 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to describe patients', radiographers' and radiography students' experiences of the developed 360° virtual counselling environment (360°VCE) for the coronary computed tomography angiography (cCTA). METHODS A descriptive qualitative approach was used. The participants were cCTA patients (n = 10), radiographers (n = 10) and radiography students (n = 10) who used the 360°VCE and visited or worked at a university hospital in Finland. The 360°VCE, resembling the authentic environments of a CT imaging unit, included digital counselling materials in text, image, animation and video formats. Data were gathered through thematic interviews individually to obtain an understanding of participants' perspectives and analyzed by inductive content analysis. RESULTS Five main categories and 15 categories were identified. Identified benefits of the 360°VCE for patients included improvements in knowledge, spatial and environmental orientation, and senses of security and self-efficacy, with reductions in fear and nervousness. Patients found the counselling materials engaging, and that the 360° technology conveniently provided reassuring familiarity with the environment before their visit. Identified benefits for radiographers and radiography students included improvements in patients' mental preparedness, knowledge, spatial and environmental orientation, and reductions in patients' fear, which eased procedures and enhanced diagnostic success. The 360°VCE also provided useful information and familiarization with the cCTA unit for students during clinical practice and staff of referring units. CONCLUSION: It seems that patients', radiographers' and radiography students' experiences of 360°VCE respond to patients' needs by improved knowledge and reduced fears. Thus, current counselling practices can be usefully complemented with spherical panoramic imaging technology and online information delivery. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The results may be used to improve patient counselling and care, thereby optimizing the cCTA examination procedure and reducing fear. However, further research is needed to characterize experiences of the 360° VCE more comprehensively.
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Rusandu A, Sjøvold BH, Hofstad E, Reidunsdatter RJ. Iodinated contrast media and their effect on thyroid function - Routines and practices among diagnostic imaging departments in Norway. J Med Radiat Sci 2020; 67:111-118. [PMID: 32232955 PMCID: PMC7276191 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In order to minimise adverse effects or patient injuries related to the effect of iodinated contrast media (ICM) on the thyroid, international guidelines and research recommend developing routines for identification and management of patients at risk of developing a thyroid dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate thyroid-related ICM administration practices among diagnostic imaging departments in Norway. METHODS The cross-sectional survey included 24 hospitals and 75 respondents with a 69% response rate. The survey covered practices for assessment and management of at-risk patients and the participants' perceived rationale for the routines. RESULTS The use of written checklists as recommended by international guidelines was quite modest (15%) and the respondents preferred various methods to identify risk and contraindications. Only 20% reported checking for any scheduled thyroid-scintigraphy and/or radioactive-iodine therapy. 42% indicated that they did not have thyroid-related ICM routines, and the main perceived reason was lack of knowledge on the topic. Radiographers and radiologists expressed uncertainty about each other's roles and routines. CONCLUSION This study revealed the need of optimisation of routines regarding ICM administration to patients at risk for thyroid dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albertina Rusandu
- Department of Circulation and Medical ImagingNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
| | - Bjørnar Heggdal Sjøvold
- Department of Circulation and Medical ImagingNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
| | - Edvin Hofstad
- Department of Circulation and Medical ImagingNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
| | - Randi Johansen Reidunsdatter
- Department of Circulation and Medical ImagingNorwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)TrondheimNorway
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