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Dose optimization and image quality measurement in digital abdominal radiography. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2022.110724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Alhasan M, Hasaneen M. The Role and Challenges of Clinical Imaging During COVID-19 Outbreak. JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/87564793211056903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The Radiology department played a crucial role in detecting and following up with the COVID-19 disease during the pandemic. The purpose of this review was to highlight and discuss the role of each imaging modality, in the radiology department, that can help in the current pandemic and to determine the challenges faced by staff and how to overcome them. Materials and Methods: A literature search was performed using different databases, including PubMed, Google scholar, and the college electronic library to access 2020 published related articles. Results: A chest computed tomogram (CT) was found to be superior to a chest radiograph, with regards to the early detection of COVID-19. Utilizing lung point of care ultrasound (POCUS) with pediatric patients, demonstrated excellent sensitivity and specificity, compared to a chest radiography. In addition, lung ultrasound (LUS) showed a high correlation with the disease severity assessed with CT. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has some limiting factors with regard to its clinical utilization, due to signal loss. The reported challenges that the radiology department faced were mainly related to infection control, staff workload, and the training of students. Conclusion: The choice of an imaging modality to provide a COVID-19 diagnosis is debatable. It depends on several factors that should be carefully considered, such as disease stage, mobility of the patient, and ease of applying infection control procedures. The pros and cons of each imaging modality were highlighted, as part of this review. To control the spread of the infection, precautionary measures such as the use of portable radiographic equipment and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) must be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Alhasan
- Department of Radiography and Medical Imaging, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Radiologic Technology Program, Applied Medical Sciences College, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohamed Hasaneen
- Department of Radiography and Medical Imaging, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Akudjedu T, Mishio N, Elshami W, Culp M, Lawal O, Botwe B, Wuni AR, Julka-Anderson N, Shanahan M, Totman J, Franklin J. 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] [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,Corresponding author. Institute of Medical Imaging & Visualisation, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth Gateway Building, St Paul's Lane, Bournemouth, BH8 8GP, 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
| | | | - 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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COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy concerns: Findings from a Ghana clinical radiography workforce survey. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 28:537-544. [PMID: 34654631 PMCID: PMC8498685 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Vaccination is a key global strategy to mitigate the clinical impact of the COVID-19 virus. As part of local efforts to manage the outbreak, the government of Ghana announced its intention to vaccinate its population starting with essential and high-risk workers including radiographers. However, there were reports of hesitance to receiving the vaccine among the radiography workforce. This study was undertaken prior to the intended vaccination exercise to assess the willingness and concerns of radiographers to undergo the COVID-19 vaccination and to suggest recommendations to improve the vaccine uptake. Methods An ethically-approved online survey strategy was employed for this cross-sectional study conducted between 24th–28th February 2021. The survey employed quantitative questions and open text response options. Quantitative and open text responses were analysed using statistical and thematic analyses, respectively. Results There were 108 responses (response rate of 46.3%). The majority (n = 64, 59.3%) were willing to have the vaccine, however, some (n = 44, 40.7%) were not. The main reason behind their willingness to have the vaccine was its ability to reduce the spread of infections and lower mortality (n = 35, 54.7%). However, doubts about the vaccine's efficacy and side effects (n = 26, 56.8%), conspiracy theory concerns about its effects on the Ghanaian race (n = 4, 9.1%), and fertility concerns (n = 2, 4.5%) were some reasons for their hesitance to receive the vaccine. The open text commentary further revealed that the vaccine was thought of as a lifesaving medication, however, clinical safety concerns, lack of education/information and religious beliefs were affecting peoples' willingness to be vaccinated. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate the need for an urgent public health educational intervention to address the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy concerns raised by radiographers to help increase the vaccine uptake. Implication for practice The study provides pertinent information to improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake among radiographers to limit the spread of infections.
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Trunz LM, Lee P, Lange SM, Pomeranz CL, Needleman L, Ford RW, Karambelkar A, Sundaram B. Imaging approach to COVID-19 associated pulmonary embolism. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14340. [PMID: 33966326 PMCID: PMC8237008 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) illness and deaths, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, continue to increase. Multiple reports highlight the thromboembolic complications, such as pulmonary embolism (PE), in COVID-19. Imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis and management of COVID-19 patients with PE. There continues to be a rapid evolution of knowledge related to COVID-19 associated PE. This review summarises the current understanding of prevalence, pathophysiology, role of diagnostic imaging modalities, and management, including catheter-directed therapy for COVID-19 associated PE. It also describes infection control considerations for the radiology department while providing care for patients with COVID-19 associated PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas M. Trunz
- Department of RadiologyThomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Patrick Lee
- Department of RadiologyThomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Steven M. Lange
- Department of RadiologyThomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | | | | | - Robert W. Ford
- Department of RadiologyThomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Ajit Karambelkar
- Department of RadiologyThomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPAUSA
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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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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: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [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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