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Moonkum N, Jitchom S, Sukaram S, Nimtrakool N, Boonrat P, Tochaikul G. Determination of scattered radiation dose for radiological staff during portable chest examinations of COVID-19 patients. Radiol Phys Technol 2023; 16:85-93. [PMID: 36656425 PMCID: PMC9851108 DOI: 10.1007/s12194-023-00698-2] [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] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a large increase in the number of patients admitted to hospitals. Radiological technologists (RTs) are often required to perform portable chest X-ray radiography on these patients. Normally, when performing a portable X-ray, radiation protection equipment is critical as it reduces the scatter radiation dose to hospital workers. However, during the pandemic, the use of a lead shield caused a heavy weight burden on workers who were responsible for a large number of patients. This study aimed to investigate scatter radiation doses received at various distances, directions, and positions. Radiation measurements were performed using the PBU-60 whole body phantom to determine scatter radiation doses at 100-200 cm and eight different angles around the phantom. The tests were conducted with and without lead shielding. Additionally, the doses were compared using the paired t test (p < 0.005) to determine suitable positions for workers who did not wear lead protection that adhered to radiation safety requirements. Scatter radiation doses of all 40 tests showed a highest and lowest value of 1285.5 nGy at 100 cm in the anteroposterior (AP) semi upright position and 134.7 nGy at 200 cm in the prone position, respectively. Correlation analysis between the dosimeter measurement and calculated inverse square law showed good correlation, with an R2 value of 0.99. Without lead shielding, RTs must stay at a distance greater than 200 cm from patients for both vertical and horizontal beams to minimize scatter exposure. This would allow for an alternative way of performing portable chest radiography for COVID-19 patients without requiring lead shielding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nutthapong Moonkum
- Faculty of Radiological Technology, Rangsit University, Patumthani, 12000 Thailand
| | - Supattra Jitchom
- Faculty of Radiological Technology, Rangsit University, Patumthani, 12000 Thailand
| | - Sorasit Sukaram
- Faculty of Radiological Technology, Rangsit University, Patumthani, 12000 Thailand
| | - Nichanard Nimtrakool
- Faculty of Radiological Technology, Rangsit University, Patumthani, 12000 Thailand
| | - Pongviroj Boonrat
- Faculty of Radiological Technology, Rangsit University, Patumthani, 12000 Thailand
| | - Gunjanaporn Tochaikul
- Faculty of Radiological Technology, Rangsit University, Patumthani, 12000, Thailand.
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2
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Akudjedu TN, Mishio NA, Elshami W, Culp MP, Lawal O, Botwe BO, Wuni AR, Julka-Anderson N, Shanahan M, Totman JJ, Franklin JM. The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical radiography practice: A systematic literature review and recommendations for future services planning. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27:1219-1226. [PMID: 34303601 PMCID: PMC8272968 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Worldwide, reports and experiences indicate that there has been extensive re-organisation within diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy departments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was necessary due to changes in workload and working practice guidelines that have evolved during the pandemic. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on radiography practice, service delivery and workforce wellbeing. METHODS A systematic review methodology was adopted to obtain data from primary studies of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods designs from databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL], and SCOPUS: all 2020 to present). The included articles were subjected to information extraction and results-based convergent synthesis. RESULTS The electronic database search yielded 10,420 articles after removal of duplicates. Of these, 31 articles met the final inclusion criteria with some (n = 8) fully focussed on radiotherapy workforce and service delivery. The pandemic impact on radiography practice is broadly themed around: training, communication, and information dissemination; infrastructure, technology, and clinical workflow; and workforce mental health and well-being. CONCLUSION Globally, most radiographers received inadequate training for managing COVID-19 patients during the initial acute phase of the pandemic. Additionally, there were significant changes to clinical practice, working patterns and perceived increase in workload due to surges in COVID-19 patients and the consequent strict adherence to new infection protocols. These changes, coupled with fear emanating from the increased risk of the workforce to contracting the infection, contributed to anxiety and workplace-related stress during the pandemic. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Local pandemic response strategies must be appropriately developed from standard protocols in readiness for safe clinical practice and well-being management training of practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- T N Akudjedu
- Institute of Medical Imaging & Visualisation (IMIV), Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, UK.
| | - N A Mishio
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Ghana
| | - W Elshami
- Department of Medical Diagnostic Imaging, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - M P Culp
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - O Lawal
- Department of Allied Health Professions, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, UK
| | - B O Botwe
- Department of Radiography, School of Biomedical & Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana
| | - A-R Wuni
- Department of Imaging Technology & Sonography, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - N Julka-Anderson
- Radiotherapy Department, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
| | - M Shanahan
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - J J Totman
- Institute of Medical Imaging & Visualisation (IMIV), Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, UK
| | - J M Franklin
- Institute of Medical Imaging & Visualisation (IMIV), Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, UK
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McConnell J, McFadden S, Floyd M, Elshami W, Abuzaid MM, Leishman L, Eckloff K. Late non-physiological impacts of Covid-19 on radiography education. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27:987-988. [PMID: 33926790 PMCID: PMC8055157 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - W Elshami
- University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Banerjee I, Robinson J, Mohabeer P, Kashyap A, Shukla A, Sathian B. COVID-19: Lockdown and its impact on medical students: A cross sectional study from a medical school in Mauritius. Nepal J Epidemiol 2021; 11:1006-1022. [PMID: 34290891 PMCID: PMC8266400 DOI: 10.3126/nje.v11i2.36951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objectives of the study were to identify the psychological impacts of lockdown on medical students due to COVID-19 and to discover the educational perplexities being faced by these students during the lockdown. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Medical College (SSRMC), Mauritius. Questions were designed after an extensive review of the literature, so as to ensure relevance to meet the objectives of the study. RESULTS Out of 700 undergraduate medical students, 663 participated, which equates to a response rate of 95%. 348 (52.5 %) of the students were stationed in their hometown and the remaining 315 (47.5 %) were stationed in Mauritius. 464(70%) of the students suffered from the psychological impacts of lockdown whereas 634(95.6%) of students suffered from the educational impact thereof. Mauritian students suffered a greater educational impact aOR4.236[1.606-11.173]. Psychological impacts aOR 1.280 [0.917-1.789] and educational impacts aOR 2.464 [1.076-5.647] were more prevalent in hometown-based students. Students pursuing their clinical studies had aOR1.219 [ 0.531-2.798] a greater educational impact as compared to preclinical studies. CONCLUSION Lockdown triggered both educational and psychological impacts on medical students. On a psychological basis it was proven that the lockdown induced a feeling of guilt and had a greater psychological impact in pre-clinical students. The COVID-19 situation was simultaneously indicated to be a motivator in the majority of students; however, juxtaposed to this was the fact that various students felt as if they couldn't study at the same level that they were accustomed to due to the uncertainty of the situation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jared Robinson
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Medical College, Belle Rive, Mauritius
| | | | - Abhishek Kashyap
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Medical College, Belle Rive, Mauritius
| | - Ananya Shukla
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Medical College, Belle Rive, Mauritius
| | - Brijesh Sathian
- Department of geriatrics and longterm care, Rumailah Hospital, Doha, Qatar
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Tay YX, Kothan S, Kada S, Cai S, Lai CWK. Challenges and optimization strategies in medical imaging service delivery during COVID-19. World J Radiol 2021; 13:102-121. [PMID: 34141091 PMCID: PMC8188837 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v13.i5.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), medical imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis, management and disease progression surveillance. Chest radiography and computed tomography are commonly used imaging techniques globally during this pandemic. As the pandemic continues to unfold, many healthcare systems worldwide struggle to balance the heavy strain due to overwhelming demand for healthcare resources. Changes are required across the entire healthcare system and medical imaging departments are no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on medical imaging practices. It is now time to pay further attention to the profound challenges of COVID-19 on medical imaging services and develop effective strategies to get ahead of the crisis. Additionally, preparation for operations and survival in the post-pandemic future are necessary considerations. This review aims to comprehensively examine the challenges and optimization of delivering medical imaging services in relation to the current COVID-19 global pandemic, including the role of medical imaging during these challenging times and potential future directions post-COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xiang Tay
- Radiography Department, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Suchart Kothan
- Center of Radiation Research and Medical Imaging, Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
| | - Sundaran Kada
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen Postbox 7030, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Sihui Cai
- Radiography Department, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Christopher Wai Keung Lai
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore 138683, Singapore
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Yasin B, Barlow N, Milner R. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the mental health and work morale of radiographers within a conventional X-ray department. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27:1064-1072. [PMID: 34023228 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a plethora of literature that has described the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of healthcare staff worldwide. Our aim was to investigate the physical and mental demands of mobile x-ray imaging on radiographers during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, within a local NHS Trust. METHODS A total of 16 participants from 1 NHS Trust took part within this study. Both quantitative and qualitative data was obtained through an online survey. Statistical data was obtained via the Trust Radiology Information System (RIS). Data was gathered for the thirteen weeks from 23rd March to 21st June 2020 (the first wave); direct comparison was made to the same period in 2019. RESULTS Three key themes emerged from the data. These include mental health challenges/work morale in Radiology, demand of mobile imaging and departmental and Trust-wide mental health support. Results indicate a high demand in mobile imaging which has made a significant difference in the working life of some radiographers. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the mental health of a proportion of radiographers at this Trust. Results indicate high workload and demand in mobile imaging has made a significant difference to the working life of radiographers, specifically the ones who were relatively newly qualified. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Two key interventions are proposed from this study. The first one is to provide and promote mental health support within radiology departments. The second is to encourage dual working on mobile x-ray examinations to help manage the emotional and physical burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Yasin
- The Rotherham Foundation NHS Trust, Moorgate Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 2UD, UK.
| | - N Barlow
- The Rotherham Foundation NHS Trust, Moorgate Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 2UD, UK.
| | - R Milner
- The Rotherham Foundation NHS Trust, Moorgate Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 2UD, UK
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Mahajan A, Sharma P. Psychological impact of COVID-19 on radiology: Emotional wellbeing versus psychological burnout. Indian J Radiol Imaging 2021; 31:S11-S14. [PMID: 33814756 PMCID: PMC7996701 DOI: 10.4103/ijri.ijri_579_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
While the COVID-19 pandemics seem to be crippling the global health care system, it has caused enormous uncertainty and panic in the lives of the health care professionals with a significant impact on their productivity. A significant proportion of these affected health care individuals comprise of the working staff belonging to the Radiology department. Although the main focus of all health care individuals has constantly been to reduce the number of new cases by minimal transmission, save lives of the infected patients by findings effective cure and carry out meticulous research to develop preventive vaccine, we have been unknowingly giving very little consideration to critical issues relating to the psychological well-being of the front liners. It is of utmost necessity that the psychological impact of this pandemic needs to be recognized and dealt with, in a timely fashion. While planning interventions to fight the pandemic, mental health issues must not be sidelined instead considered pragmatically. The radiology departments must come up with a mitigation plan to combat the subsequent short-term and long-term adverse effects of COVID-19 on mental well-being of their staff members. This article discusses the psychological impact of COVID-19 on the radiology department.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Prerit Sharma
- Sharma Diagnostic Centre, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
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8
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Rainford LA, Zanardo M, Buissink C, Decoster R, Hennessy W, Knapp K, Kraus B, Lanca L, Lewis S, Mahlaola TB, McEntee M, O'Leary D, Precht H, Starc T, McNulty JP. The impact of COVID-19 upon student radiographers and clinical training. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 27:464-474. [PMID: 33223416 PMCID: PMC7834574 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction To investigate student clinical placement concerns and opinions, during the initial COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and to inform educational institution support planning. Methods Between mid-June to mid-July 2020, educational institutions from 12 countries were invited to participate in an online survey designed to gain student radiographer opinion from a wide geographical spread and countries with varying levels of COVID-19 cases. Results 1277 respondents participated, of these 592 had completed clinical placements during January to June 2020. Accommodation and cohabiting risks were identified as challenging, as was isolation from family, travel to clinical placements, and to a lesser extent childcare. Students stated they had been affected by the feeling of isolation and concerns about the virus whilst on placement. Overall 35.4% of all respondents were ‘Not at all worried’ about being a radiographer, however, 64.6% expressed varying levels of concern and individual domestic or health situations significantly impacted responses (p ≤ 0.05). Year 4 students and recent graduates were significantly more likely to be ‘Not worried at all’ compared to Year 2 and 3 students (p ≤ 0.05). The need for improved communication regarding clinical placements scheduling was identified as almost 50% of students on clinical placements between January to June 2020 identified the completion of assessments as challenging. Furthermore, only 66% of respondents with COVID-19 imaging experience stated being confident with personal protective equipment (PPE) use. Conclusion Student radiographers identified key challenges which require consideration to ensure appropriate measures are in place to support their ongoing needs. Importantly PPE training is required before placement regardless of prior COVID-19 imaging experience. Implications for practice As the next academic year commences, the study findings identify important matters to be considered by education institutions with responsibility for Radiography training and as students commence clinical placements during the on-going global COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Rainford
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland.
| | - M Zanardo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy; Italian Federation of Scientific Radiographers Societies, Italy.
| | - C Buissink
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - R Decoster
- Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, Odisee University of Applied Sciences, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - W Hennessy
- Diagnostic Imaging, Quinnipiac University, Connecticut, USA.
| | - K Knapp
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, UK.
| | - B Kraus
- Department Health Sciences, Radiological Technology, University of Applied Sciences, FH Campus Wien, Austria.
| | - L Lanca
- Singapore Institute of Technology, Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore.
| | - S Lewis
- Discipline of Medical Imaging Science, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - T B Mahlaola
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - M McEntee
- Discipline of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Ireland.
| | - D O'Leary
- School of Allied Health Professionals, Keele University, UK.
| | - H Precht
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - T Starc
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - J P McNulty
- Radiography and Diagnostic Imaging, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Ireland.
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Lewis S, Mulla F. Diagnostic radiographers' experience of COVID-19, Gauteng South Africa. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 27:346-351. [PMID: 33004276 PMCID: PMC7500947 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction As of July 2020, South Africa (SA) had the fifth highest number of COVID-19 infections in the world, with the greatest contributor of these infections, being the province of Gauteng. Diagnostic radiographers in Gauteng providing chest CT, chest radiograph and MRI services are frontline workers experiencing these unprecedented times. Therefore, this study undertook to explore diagnostic radiographers’ experiences of COVID-19. Methods A qualitative approach using an asynchronous opened-ended online questionnaire was used to explore diagnostic radiographers’ experiences of COVID-19. Responses from purposively sampled diagnostic radiographers in Gauteng SA, underwent thematic analysis. Results Sixty diagnostic radiographers representing both the private and public health sector responded to the questionnaire. Thematic analysis revealed three themes: new work flow and operations, effect on radiographer well-being and radiographer resilience. Conclusion Besides experiencing a shift in their professional work routine and home/family dynamics, diagnostic radiographers’ well-being has also been impacted by COVID-19. Adapting to the “new way of work” has been challenging yet their resilience and dedication to their profession, providing quality patient care and skill expertise is their arsenal to combat these challenges. Implications for practice Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on diagnostic radiographers will allow radiology departments’ management, hospital management, professional bodies and educational institutions to re-evaluate provision of resources, training, employee wellness programs as well as policies and procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lewis
- Corner Siemert & Beit, University of Johannesburg, Department of Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences, John Orr Building, 6th Floor Office 6304A, Doornfontein, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa.
| | - F Mulla
- Corner Siemert & Beit, University of Johannesburg, Department of Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences, John Orr Building, 6th Floor Office 6307, Doornfontein, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa.
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Stogiannos N, Fotopoulos D, Woznitza N, Malamateniou C. COVID-19 in the radiology department: What radiographers need to know. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 26:254-263. [PMID: 32532596 PMCID: PMC7269964 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim is to review current literature related to the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of suspected and confirmed Covid-19 cases. KEY FINDINGS Medical Imaging plays an important auxiliary role in the diagnosis of Covid-19 patients, mainly those most seriously affected. Practice differs widely among different countries, mainly due to the variability of access to resources (viral testing and imaging equipment, specialised staff, protective equipment). It has been now well-documented that chest radiographs should be the first-line imaging tool and chest CT should only be reserved for critically ill patients, or when chest radiograph and clinical presentation may be inconclusive. CONCLUSION As radiographers work on the frontline, they should be aware of the potential risks associated with Covid-19 and engage in optimal strategies to reduce these. Their role in vetting, conducting and often reporting the imaging examinations is vital, as well as their contribution in patient safety and care. Medical Imaging should be limited to critically ill patients, and where it may have an impact on the patient management plan. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE At the time of publication, this review offers the most up-to-date recommendations for clinical practitioners in radiology departments, including radiographers. Radiography practice has to significantly adjust to these new requirements to support optimal and safe imaging practices for the diagnosis of Covid-19. The adoption of low dose CT, rigorous infection control protocols and optimal use of personal protective equipment may reduce the potential risks of radiation exposure and infection, respectively, within Radiology departments.
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MESH Headings
- COVID-19
- Coronavirus Infections/diagnosis
- Coronavirus Infections/diagnostic imaging
- Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
- Female
- Humans
- Infection Control/methods
- Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control
- Male
- Occupational Health
- Pandemics
- Patient Safety
- Patient-Centered Care/organization & administration
- Pneumonia, Viral/diagnosis
- Pneumonia, Viral/diagnostic imaging
- Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
- Radiography, Thoracic/methods
- Radiography, Thoracic/statistics & numerical data
- Radiologists/organization & administration
- Radiology Department, Hospital/organization & administration
- Safety Management
- Sensitivity and Specificity
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/diagnostic imaging
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/epidemiology
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed/statistics & numerical data
- Ultrasonography, Doppler/methods
- Ultrasonography, Doppler/statistics & numerical data
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Affiliation(s)
- N Stogiannos
- Department of Medical Imaging, Corfu General Hospital, Greece.
| | | | - N Woznitza
- Radiology Department, Homerton University Hospital, UK; School of Allied and Public Health Professions Canterbury Christ Church University, UK; NHS Nightingale Hospital London, UK.
| | - C Malamateniou
- Department of Radiography, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London EC1V 0HB, UK; King's College, London, UK.
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11
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Sng LH, Arlany L, Toh LC, Loo TY, Ilzam NS, Wong BSS, Lanca L. Initial data from an experiment to implement a safe procedure to perform PA erect chest radiographs for COVID-19 patients with a mobile radiographic system in a "clean" zone of the hospital ward. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 27:48-53. [PMID: 32517970 PMCID: PMC7261440 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Introduction With the current Covid-19 pandemic, general wards have been converted into cohort wards for Covid-19 patients who are stable and ambulant. A 2-radiographer mobile radiography team is required to perform bedside Chest X-rays (CXR) for these patients. Hospital guidelines require both radiographers to be in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) throughout the image acquisition process and the mobile radiographic unit needs to be disinfected twice after each case. This affects the efficiency of the procedure and an increase usage of limited PPE resources. This study aims to explore the feasibility of performing mobile chest radiography with the mobile radiographic unit in a “clean” zone of the hospital ward. Methods An anthropomorphic body phantom was used during the test. With the mobile radiographic unit placed in a “clean” zone, the phantom and the mobile radiographic unit was segregated by the room door with a clear glass panel. The test was carried out with the room door open and closed. Integrated radiation level and patient dose were measured. A consultant radiologist was invited to review and score all the images acquired using a Barco Medical Grade workstation. The Absolute Visual Grading Analysis (VGA) scoring system was used to score these images. Results A VGA score of 4 was given to all the 40 test images, suggesting that there is no significant differences in the image quality of the images acquired using the 2 different methods. Radiation exposure received by the patient at the highest kV setting through the glass is comparable to the regular CXR on patient without glass panel at 90 kV, suggesting that there is no significant increase in patient dose. Conclusion The result suggests that acquiring CXR with the X-ray beam attenuating through a glass panel is a safe and feasible way of performing CXR for COVID-19 patients in the newly converted COVID wards. This will allow the mobile radiographic unit as well as one radiographer to be completely segregated from the patient. Implications for practice This new method of acquiring CXR in an isolation facility set up requires a 2-Radiographer mobile radiography team, and is applicable only for patients who are generally well and not presented with any mobility issues. It is also important to note that a clear glass panel must be present in the barriers set up for segregation between the “clean” zone and patient zone in order to use this new method of acquiring CXR.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H Sng
- Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, 544886, Singapore; Singapore Institute of Technology, 10 Dover Drive, 138683, Singapore.
| | - L Arlany
- Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, 544886, Singapore
| | - L C Toh
- Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, 544886, Singapore
| | - T Y Loo
- Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, 544886, Singapore
| | - N S Ilzam
- Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, 544886, Singapore
| | - B S S Wong
- Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang East Way, 544886, Singapore
| | - L Lanca
- Singapore Institute of Technology, 10 Dover Drive, 138683, Singapore
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Hogg P, Holmes K, McNulty J, Newman D, Keene D, Beardmore C. Covid-19: Free resources to support radiographers. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 26:189-191. [PMID: 32419768 PMCID: PMC7225700 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P Hogg
- University of Salford, UK.
| | | | - J McNulty
- EFRS, European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Catharijnesingel 73, 3511 GM, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - D Newman
- ISRRT, Sanford Health System in Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - D Keene
- The Society and College of Radiographers, UK
| | - C Beardmore
- The Society and College of Radiographers, UK
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