Radiographers' perspectives on interactional processes during older persons diagnostic medical imaging encounters: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Within a diagnostic medical imaging context, an interaction encompasses communication, physical contact and emotional support. These intricacies are an integral part in achieving a successful medical imaging outcome. An increasing ageing population presents unique challenges and leads to a higher demand for medical imaging services. There is a paucity of literature exploring the specialised knowledge and skills required by radiographers to service optimal person-centred care for elderly patients. The purpose of the study was to explore radiographers' perspectives on interactional processes during older persons diagnostic medical imaging encounters. METHODS: The study used a qualitative exploratory research design with a descriptive approach to gain insights from 12 purposively sampled Australian radiographers, through open-ended interviews conducted online or by telephone. Verbatim transcripts were produced, and a thematic analysis employed until data saturation had been reached. RESULTS: The three themes that emerged from the data analysis were: (1) optimising care and communication, (2) expectations and preconceptions and (3) physical and emotional comfort and safety. Generally, the approach to undertaking older persons examinations entailed more adaptive and flexible competencies and skills in comparison to the familiarised routine diagnostic medical imaging encounters with the younger cohort. Radiographers shared aspects on striking a balance between efficiency and proficiency with the elderly patient needs, preferences, values, safety and well-being considerations. This required swift, complex decision-making and judgement calls due to the unpredictable nature of the context in which the elderly person was situated. The result was the adaptation of examination protocols through equipment manipulation, with minimal disruptions to emotional and physical comfort, achieved through interventions and support strategies. CONCLUSION: The results highlight the many considerations for radiographers during a short clinical interaction. There is optimism in adding value to the elderly persons experience through a complex interactional process. It is anticipated that the identified skills will inform on best practice principles to achieve an elderly person-centred care medical imaging outcome.

Assessing the impact of trained Radiologist Assistants in a busy emergency teleradiology practice: a comprehensive evaluation.

PURPOSE: This study aims to study the feasibility and usefulness of trained Radiologist Assistants in a busy emergency teleradiology practice. METHOD: This is a retrospective study over a 21-month period (January 2021 to September 2022). The study analysed archived data from 247118 peer review studies performed by Radiologist Assistants (RAs) out of a total case volume of 828526 and evaluated the rate of discrepancies, the study types commonly noted to have discrepancies, and the severity of errors. These missed findings were brought to the attention of the radiologists for approval and further decision-making. RESULTS: Peer review by RAs was performed on 30% (n = 247118) of the total volume 828526 studies reported, and yielded additional findings including but not limited to fractures (218; 23%), hemorrhage,(94; 10%) pulmonary thromboembolism, (n = 104; 11%), Calculus (n = 75; 8%) lesion (n = 66; 5%), appendicitis(n = 50; 4%) and others. These were brought to the attention of the radiologist, who agreed in 97% (1279 out of 1318) of cases, and communicated the same to the referring facility, with an addended report. CONCLUSION: Trained RAs can provide value to the peer review program of a busy teleradiology practice and decrease errors. This may be useful to meet the ongoing radiologist shortages.

Knowledge, attitudes and practice of infection prevention and control in the CT suite.

BACKGROUND: Infection, prevention, and control (IPC) practices are essential to protect patients and staff within healthcare facilities. Radiology departments cater to both inpatients and outpatients, and breaches of IPC practice have led to outbreaks of disease within healthcare facilities. This study aims to examine the knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) of computed tomography (CT) radiographers and nurses in their infection, prevention, and control (IPC) practice. The KAP components focuses on the CT environment, contrast injector use, and workplace factors that impact IPC practice. METHODS: A cross-sectional KAP survey was distributed online to Australian CT radiographers and radiology nurses across different institutions. The survey covered demographics, each KAP component, and workplace culture. Spearman's correlation was used to compare KAP scores. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the KAP scores between demographic categories, and Chi Square was used to compare demographic data with workplace culture. RESULTS: There were 147 respondents, 127 of which were radiographers and 20 were nurses. There was a moderate positive correlation between knowledge and attitude for radiographers (rho = 0.394, p < 0.001). Radiographers also had a moderate positive relationship between attitudes and practice (rho = 0.466, p < 0.001). Both radiographers and nurses scored high in the knowledge section of the survey, but nurses had statistically significant higher practice scores than radiographers (p = 0.014). CT radiographers who had an IPC team in their workplace or worked in public hospitals, had statistically significant higher attitudes and practice scores. Age, education, and years of experience did not impact on KAP scores. CONCLUSION: The study found that radiographers and nurses had a good baseline knowledge of standard precautions. IPC teams and continued training is important to positively influence knowledge and attitudes of health professionals towards IPC practice. The KAP survey was a useful tool to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practice on IPC of CT radiographers and nurses and identified areas for education, interventions, and leadership.

The prevalence of harassment of diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy students whilst on clinical placement in the Republic of Ireland.

Objective: To determine if student radiographers and radiation therapists experience harassment (verbal, physical or sexual) while on clinical placement and their awareness of policies in place to report such incidents.Methods: An online questionnaire developed from the World Health Organisation's questionnaire on workplace violence in healthcare and the higher education authority (HEA) national survey of student experiences of sexual violence and harassment in Irish HEIs was used. Undergraduate and postgraduate diagnostic radiography and radiation therapy students in the Republic of Ireland to be included and have completed a minimum of four weeks of clinical placement. Our of 256 students, 98 filled out the survey.Results: Forty-one per cent (n = 40) of students reported experiencing at least one incident of harassment. Thirteen per cent reported experiencing two forms of harassment, and 2 students reported experiencing verbal, physical and sexual harassment. Verbal harassment (n = 33) and sexual (n = 16) were the most common form of harassment while physical harassment was experienced 7 participants. Ninety-one per cent (n = 88) of participants reported they don't believe they have received sufficient training in dealing with incidents of physical, verbal or sexual harassment.Conclusion: Harassment of student radiographers and radiation therapists is occurring while on placement. Male patients are the modal perpetrator, and most incidents go unreported. Students are not empowered to report an incident of harassment and are sometimes unaware of how to report harassment.

Investigation of the Radiographer's adherence and compliance with radiation protection and infection control practices during COVID-19 mobile radiography.

Radiological staff, especially radiographers, work as front liners against the COVID-19 outbreak. This study aims to assess compliance with radiation protection and infection control practices during COVID-19 mobile radiography procedures. This cross-sectional study included 234 radiographers (females, 56%, n = 131; males, 44%, n = 103) who were asked to complete an online questionnaire consisting of demographic data, radiation protection and infection control practices during COVID-19 portable cases, and knowledge and awareness. After informed consent was completed, SPSS statistical software was used for the data analysis. The most common age group of participants ranged from 18 to 25 years old (30.3%, n = 71). Bachelor's degree holders were 74.4% (n = 174). Most radiographers (39.7%, n = 93) had a working experience of 1-5 years, followed by 27.8% (n = 65) with more than 16 years of experience. Most respondents (62.4%, n = 146) handled approximately 1-5 cases daily, the majority of them (56%, n = 131) stated affirmatively they had obtained special training to handle COVID-19, and when inquired if they had received any special allowances for handling COVID-19 suspected/confirmed cases most of them stated negative (73.9%, n = 173). Most participants stated that they always wear a TLD during portable cases (67.1%, n = 157) and a lead apron (51.7%, n = 121). Around 73% (n = 171) knew the latest information on COVID-19 and attended the COVID-19 awareness course. A significant association was found between the work experience of the radiographers and their responses to following the best practices (p = 0.018, α = 0.05). Radiographers who had COVID-19 training (µ = 48.78) tend to adhere more to best practices than those who have not (p = 0.04, α = 0.05). Further, respondents who handled more than 16/more COVID-19 suspected/confirmed cases followed the best practices more (µ = 50.38) than those who handled less (p = 0.04, α = 0.05). This study revealed detailed information on radiation protection and infection control practices during COVID-19 mobile radiography. It has been observed that the participants/radiographers have good knowledge and awareness of radiation protection and infection-control practices. The present results may be used to plan future requirements regarding resources and training to ensure patient safety.

Knowledge of CT exposure parameters among Norwegian student radiographers.

BACKGROUND: Improvements in the competency levels of student radiographers in computed tomography examinations (CT) are important due to the increasing number of these examinations being undertaken in imaging departments. The present study assesses the knowledge of student radiographers regarding CT exposure parameters. METHODS: The level of knowledge related to CT exposure parameters was evaluated using a twenty-one-item questionnaire that was distributed to final-year student radiographers. The questionnaire consisted of questions around CT exposure parameters and either allowed respondents to answer "true," or "false" or choose a response from a range of responses where only one answer was correct. Correct answers were given one mark, while no mark was given for an incorrect answer. The score out of possible 21 was converted to a percentage, with a higher percentage signifying greater knowledge. RESULTS: Seventy-two students completed and returned the questionnaire, resulting in a 71% response rate. The mean score was 53%. Only 33% of students correctly identified that kilovoltage peak (kVp) should be increased when patients have metallic implants, and milliampere seconds (mAs) should be increased as body part thickness increases. No one answered all the questions correctly. There was no significant knowledge difference between students who had CT facilities on campus and those that did not. CONCLUSION: Overall, student radiographers' knowledge of CT exposure parameters was reported to be satisfactory.

Cytogenetic effects of radiation and genetic polymorphisms of the XRCC1 and XRCC3 repair genes in industrial radiographers.

Different types of DNA damages caused by ionizing radiation may enhance the cancer risk in exposed individuals. Inherited variations in DNA repair genes cause the inter-individual variability in response to ionizing radiation. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of two important DNA repair genes (XRCC1 R399Q and XRCC3 T241M) and the level of DNA damage investigated by micronucleus (MN) frequency in peripheral blood lymphocytes of 120 industrial radiographers (IR) and 120 non-exposed control individuals. The frequencies of MN and nucleoplasmic bridges were significantly higher in the IR group than in the control group (33.83 ± 11.96 vs. 7.47 ± 2.96, p < 0.0001 and 1.69 ± 1.86 vs. 0.12 ± 0.33, p < 0.0001). MN frequencies in the IR group were associated with the cumulative radiation doses (p < 0.0001, r = 0.58 for last 1 year of exposure and p < 0.0001, r = 0.67 for last 5 years of exposure). Polymorphism of XRCC3 T241M was associated with higher MN frequencies in the IR group. However, the same result was not observed between XRCC3 SNP and MN frequency in the control group. Consequently, XRCC3 241Met alleles may cause the increased DNA damage in the industrial radiographers.

Radiographers' perceptions of their professional rights in diagnostic radiography: a qualitative interview study.

BACKGROUND: Considering the ethics of each profession is important as inter-professional collaboration increases. Professional ethics creates a basis for radiographers' work, as it includes values and principles, together with rights and duties that guide and support professionals. However, little is known about radiographers' rights when it comes to professional ethics. THE AIM: The aim of this study was to describe radiographers' perceptions and experiences of their professional rights. The ultimate aim was to increase the understanding of professional ethics in this context and support radiographers' ethical pondering in diagnostic radiography. METHODOLOGY: A qualitative method was used. Semistructured group interviews with 15 radiographers were conducted in spring 2013 at two publicly provided diagnostic imaging departments in Finland. Data were analysed by inductive content analysis. All the participants were women, and they had worked as radiographers for an average of 18 years. FINDINGS: Based on our analysis, radiographers' professional rights consisted of rights related to their expertise in radiography and the rights related to working conditions that ensured their wellbeing. Expertise-based rights included rights to plan, conduct and assess radiological care with patient advocacy. Radiographers have the right to contribute to a culture of safe radiation in their organisation and to use their professional knowledge to achieve their main target, which is the safe imaging of patients. Radiographers also have right to work in conditions that support their well-being, including the legal rights stated in their employment contract, as well as their rights concerning resources at work. CONCLUSIONS: Radiographers' professional rights are an elementary and multidimensional part of their clinical practice. In future, more theoretical and empirical research is needed to deepen the understanding of their rights in the clinical practice and support radiographers on issues related to this aspect of their work.

The burnout phenomenon among student radiographers: a single centre experience.

OBJECTIVES: Burnout syndrome is a condition that may occur not only for staff in human service sectors/jobs, involving intensive interactions with others, but also people that are engaged in activities psychologically similar to work, such as students. Radiographers in training suffer double stress, first linked to the status of being a university student and secondly as early career workers who have relations with the public of the health system. Aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence and levels of burnout syndrome among radiographers in training in an University Hospital. METHODS: In order to gain a better understanding of nature of the burnout syndrome a modified version of Maslach's questionnaire (investigating three areas: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment), was administered to two groups selected from a cohort of radiographers University students (from the 1st and 3rd year of course). RESULTS: 62/62 questionnaires were completed, returned and analysed. The research outcomes highlighted a clear difference between group I and group II in relation to one of the three areas of the Maslach's model: "depersonalization" (p<0.001). Moreover, the third year students group presented a significantly higher risk to develop burnout. On the other hand, the third area examined, the reduced personal accomplishment domain, was surprisingly high even among first-year students. CONCLUSIONS: The research outcomes seem to suggest that the presence of emotional burnout, or risk of burnout, among third year students is statistically significant, compared to the first year students, being a significant aspect to investigate further in this class of students. It is also assumed that the high degree of "past failures, feeling of self failure" observed among all student, is related to a feeling of poor efficacy and poor self worth that appear to grow from the beginning of the course. This topic needs further investigation in the light of the result of this study.

Mammographic positioning quality of newly trained versus experienced radiographers in the Dutch breast cancer screening programme.

PURPOSE: Our purpose was to compare mammographic positioning quality of new (NR) versus experienced screening radiographers (ER) in the Netherlands. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Before starting to work in breast screening, NR must complete an education programme including a theoretical course (four days), practical training (six weeks), and a portfolio-review of 50 mammographic screening examinations performed by the radiographer. Furthermore, Dutch screening has an extensive system of quality assurance, including an audit-review of positioning quality of mammograms by ER. We analysed 13,520 portfolio views (NR) and 14,896 audit views (ER) based on pre-specified criteria, e.g., depiction of inframammary angle. RESULTS: Overall positioning was more adequate for NR than ER (CC views: 97% versus 86%, p = 0.00; MLO views: 92% versus 84%, p = 0.00). NR scored better for most of the CC-criteria and showed, for instance, less folds (inadequate: 10% versus 16%, p = 0.00). In contrast, NR encountered more difficulties for MLO views in, for example, depiction of infra-mammary angle (inadequate: 38% versus 34%, p = 0.00). Overall, mammograms from NR were more often considered adequate, because of less severe errors. CONCLUSION: NR perform better than ER in overall positioning technique. These results stress the need for continuous monitoring and training in breast screening programmes to keep positioning skills up to date. KEY POINTS: • We evaluated positioning quality of new and experienced Dutch screening radiographers. • New radiographers outperform their experienced colleagues in mammographic positioning quality. • New radiographers make less severe errors compared to experienced colleagues. • There is a need for a continuous individual monitoring and feedback system.

The perceptions and willingness of radiographers to extend their roles and become reporting radiographers in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

INTRODUCTION: There has been an increase in the need for diagnostic imaging services globally, which is faster than the capacity of radiologists. The current workforce model is not sustainable due to the predicted aging of the population and the contraction of the healthcare workforce. By extending the role of radiographers to a specific range of radiological reporting tasks. It may be possible to meet demand and relieve some pressure on radiologists and increase radiographer satisfaction and retention. The purpose of this study is to investigate the perceptions, and willingness of the Abu Dhabi radiographers to extend their role as reporting radiographers in skeleton radiography. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among radiographers in the UAE. The on-line questionnaire was designed to obtain demographic information about radiographers, their qualifications, their professional experience, their postgraduate training, their plans for professional development, as well as their interest in future career opportunities related to extended roles. RESULTS: This study had a response rate of 50% (n = 60). The government sector accounted for 75.3% of the survey's participants, while the private sector accounted for 24.7%. The main gains for role advancement were identified by 58.3% of the participants who were confident to start interpreting the upper and lower extremities in the emergency room (ER), and 86.3% were willing to be reporting radiographers. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the Abu Dhabi radiographers are willing to extend their role in the interpretation of general X-ray images of skeletons. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Curriculum development in radiography and medical imaging education jointly with licensing health authority bodies is required to plan for the new radiographer reporting role.

Diagnostic radiographers' perceptions of professional identity in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.

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.

Forensic radiography: The perspectives and experiences of qualified radiographers in Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Despite the benefits of forensic radiography (FR), its practice is in its infancy in Ghana. Radiographers, knowingly or unknowingly undertake forensic imaging despite a lack of guidelines, protocols and proper training in Ghana. This study aimed to explore Ghanaian radiographers' perceptions of FR and identify their experiences. METHODS: A cross-sectional study design with an online survey was employed. Study participants included consecutively sampled qualified radiographers practising in Ghana. Data were descriptively and inferentially analysed. The significance for inferential analysis was set at p < 0.05. The key ideas from the narrative response to open-ended questions were presented as frequencies on a bar graph representing the frequency of each response. RESULTS: Completed responses were received from 124 qualified radiographers. Participants demonstrated a fair knowledge of FR (overall mean score (oms) = 3.95). Most participants (75% n=93) believed FR was within their professional scope of practice though the majority (57.2% n=71) believed they lacked formal training in FR. FR was perceived to be challenging among participants (ms= 3.52). Participants agreed on the provision of guidelines for FR practice by Ghanaian radiography stakeholders (oms= 4.23). Participants' experiences revealed diverse roles in investigations and emotional/psychological reflections. Regarding cadaveric FR, most participants (59.7% n=74) expressed willingness to undertake. Specifically, male participants were 4 times more likely to report willingness than females (odd ratio (OR)= 4.147). DISCUSSION: Ghanaian radiographers demonstrated fair knowledge of FR despite a lack of awareness regarding cross-sectional techniques in FR. They presented a multitude of positive and negative perspectives regarding FR. Training in FR and guidelines are imperative to transform future practices in Ghana. The study highlighted reluctance and willingness among radiographers to perform cadaveric FR, emphasising the need for emotional preparedness. CONCLUSION: This study offers insight into the perspectives of Ghanaian radiographers on FR, which would be helpful for future developments regarding its practice.

Reporting radiographers in Europe survey: Support, role satisfaction, and advanced clinical practice within the European federation of radiographer society (EFRS) member countries.

INTRODUCTION: Increasing number of radiographers are undertaking image reporting throughout Europe. However, there are variations in practice and experience in European countries. The study aim was to investigate reporting radiographer's perceptions in relation to support for their role and workload satisfaction and elements of advanced practice that may also be undertaken. METHODS: Following institutional ethical approval an online 34 item questionnaire survey was circulated via social media; Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn in a 12-week period in 2022 across Europe. The survey data were managed by the online secure database REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture). Data was collected across a range of questions, of which those relating to support for, and barriers to radiographer reporting, role and job satisfaction, and other role elements are reported here. RESULTS: A response level of 345 individual reporting radiographers replied to the survey from 15 European countries; some questions were optional and therefore had a lower response rate. There was consensus about the need for support from radiologists and management, protected time, and funding to support the reporting role. The majority of respondents received additional pay for taking on this role and expressed satisfaction with their role and workload. In relation to elements of advanced practice, the majority of respondents were involved in educational and managerial activities, and there was interest, but limited involvement, in research. CONCLUSION: There was a consensus about the support needed, and perceived barriers to, radiographer reporting, between reporting radiographers from different countries. Whilst there is some commonality in relation to activities such as supervision and education, there was clearer variety in relation to opportunities for research between the respondents, perhaps reflecting the differences between reporting as a standalone role development and reporting as part of an advanced clinical practice role. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: As there is increasingly an emphasis on advanced clinical practice, reporting radiographers are likely to require support to develop their skills so that they can actively participate in the broader activities associated with this role, including education, leadership, and research.

Addressing the communication needs of cancer patients for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) investigations-A phenomenological study on the experiences of MRI radiographers.

INTRODUCTION: A higher demand in MRI services could increase the pressure on MRI departments to increase scanning efficiency. This presents the risk of downplaying person-centred care especially for cancer patients with increased communication needs that result from anxiety associated with the nature of their disease. This study explored the experiences of MRI radiographers in addressing the communication needs of cancer patients attending for MRI examinations. METHODS: The study adopted a descriptive phenomenological methodology. Single contact interviews were conducted on eight MRI specialist radiographers, and these were recorded and transcribed using Microsoft Teams conferencing platform. Thematic analysis of the transcribed data was done through an inductive approach, breaking down the data into meaningful codes and thereafter, into themes and sub-themes. RESULTS: Common themes generated from the interview data included: identified communication needs, approach to communication needs, support for radiographers and factors affecting communication. Experiences of MRI radiographers indicated increased communication needs in anxious cancer patients and approaches adopted in addressing these were mainly through listening and use of empathetic gestures. Some radiographers admitted to using "blocking" strategies to avoid being drawn into emotionally exhausting conversations. Both intrinsic factors such as radiographers' personality and experience; and extrinsic factors such as time constraints, demanding workload, inadequate staffing, and skill mix were noted to influenced MRI radiographers in addressing these communication needs. CONCLUSION: Cancer patients can present with communication needs due to anxieties related to their disease. For the radiographer to deal with these needs, adequate support is needed, and necessary steps taken to address the identified influencing factors. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: MRI departments should encourage enabling environment and services that address communication needs of patients with cancer.

Research activity among diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers: An international survey.

INTRODUCTION: Various national solutions have been considered and implemented to address the factors which limit radiographer engagement in conducting research. Nevertheless, national literature continues to suggest that radiographer engagement in research remains low. The aim of this study was to extend the existing evidence base by conducting an international survey to assess diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers involvement with, barriers to and support mechanisms for research. METHODS: Data collection was obtained via an online questionnaire which was distributed by the International Society of Radiographers and Radiologic Technologists (ISRRT). The study population included an international sample of qualified diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers across clinical and academic contexts in a variety of different roles such as clinical practice, management, education and research. RESULTS: In total, 420 diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers completed the survey. Multiple reasons were identified that were considered to inhibit respondents from conducting research. 69.3% indicated a combination of reasons for lack of engagement with research, rather than one single issue. Examples of reasons include: lack of time, insufficient research funding, limited research expertise, and lack of a suitable mentorship scheme. CONCLUSION: A minor segment of survey respondents indicated involvement in research activity. Lack of dedicated time to research, mentors, and funding were among the main barriers to conduct research. Further research is required to explore what solutions are available to overcoming the barriers.

Attitudes and barriers to interprofessional collaboration among radiographers: A multi-country perspective.

INTRODUCTION: To promote effective interprofessional collaboration (IPC), it is crucial to understand the attitudes of healthcare workers towards IPC and identify any barriers they may face. This is particularly important in the radiography profession where IPC is vital for providing holistic care and ensuring radiation protection and safety. However, there is limited research available on the attitudes and barriers to IPC specifically among radiographers. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the attitudes and barriers to IPC among radiographers from multiple countries. METHODS: A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional online survey was conducted using the adapted attitudes toward healthcare teams scale (ATHCT) and barriers scale towards IPC. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon rank-sum, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and exploratory factor analysis. RESULTS: A total of 233 radiographers across the globe participated in this survey. The study found that the overall mean score on the ATHCT scale was 54.68 (SD = 5.75). Although not statistically significant, radiographers with over 15 years of experience tended to strongly agree with all the statements, indicating a more positive attitude towards IPC. The study also identified three subscales related to IPC: quality of care, team efficiency, and time constraint. The top three barriers to IPC reported by radiographers include i. a lack of clearly defined, shared, and measurable purpose, ii. poor communication, and iii. a lack of commitment from team members. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight the need for interventions and programs that promote effective communication and establish a shared vision among healthcare team members.

Ultrasound education across European Federation of Radiographers Societies (EFRS) countries: Similarities and differences.

INTRODUCTION: Ultrasound education varies greatly across European healthcare systems. This paper focuses on ultrasound academic education as a part of wider suite of surveys on radiographers working in ultrasound. The aim was to investigate sonography educational levels, methods of training, course duration and other factors in European Federation of Radiographers Societies (EFRS) member countries. METHOD: In 2019 an online survey was sent to the 38 EFRS member societies to distribute to higher education institutions within their own country. The survey was in English and contained different types of questions such as closed questions, free text options, and scale responses, to investigate sonography education including academic course types and duration, curriculum content, learning and teaching methods. RESULTS: A total of 45 responses were received, showing wide variation in the duration of training between the respective countries. Academic level 7 (part-time) ultrasound education was most frequently reported (n = 13), followed by direct entry ultrasound courses (n = 9) and bachelor's degree programmes at EQF level 6 (n = 7). The duration of part-time courses ranged from nine months up to four years. CONCLUSION: Sonography training and education varies among EFRS member countries ranging from short focused courses to postgraduate awards. Few countries offer sonography education leading to an award. The majority of clinical teaching and learning takes place in the learner's workplace. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: High quality academic and clinical education for radiographers extending their role into ultrasound is important to ensure safe, effective sonography practice and good patient care.

Reporting radiographers within the European Federation of Radiographer Society (EFRS) member countries - motivation for becoming a reporting radiographer.

INTRODUCTION: Radiographer-led reporting originated in the United Kingdom as a strategy to reduce reporting backlog and time taken to report images. The effectiveness of reporting radiographers has been demonstrated, but their motivational factors have not been thoroughly explored. This survey aims to understand the incentives for radiographers to pursue postgraduate education in reporting radiography across Europe. METHODS: An online survey was conducted, collecting data across a range of topics such as demographic information, professional role, and job satisfaction. Questions assessing the influence of motivational factors on the decision to become a reporting radiographer are presented in this study. Descriptive statistics characterized the respondents' demographics. The motivational aspects were analysed quantitatively by regression analyses. Thematic analyses were performed for the free text responses on motivational aspects. RESULTS: 239 respondents from the UK, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, The Netherlands, Ireland, and Malta completed the survey's motivation section. Increased knowledge and new challenges were the most motivating factors for becoming a reporting radiographer, while less exposure to radiation and less patient contact were the least motivating factors. Job satisfaction was a significant motivator. Gender significantly correlated with the importance of social connections for female reporting radiographers. A cross-country comparison showed that title and position and job security were more important for reporting radiographers from the UK. CONCLUSION: Taking in consideration that a sample of 239 is not generalisable for the role, this survey does provides insights into the motivation behind being a reporting radiographer in Europe. Factors such as increased knowledge, new challenges, and job satisfaction play significant roles. Hindrances experienced by reporting radiographers included lack of time, support, and standards, while aspirations for further professional development were expressed. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: A thorough understanding of the motivation behind pursuing postgraduate studies in reporting radiography is a valuable tool for managers, aiding in fostering a positive work environment and attracting/keeping qualified personnel. The findings of this study can be employed in the development of strategies to support and enhance the practice of reporting radiographers.

Exploration of radiographers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices in delivering healthcare to children with autism spectrum disorder.

INTRODUCTION: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) poses unique challenges in healthcare settings, including radiographic examinations. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of radiographers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) towards ASD children, a population with increased healthcare needs. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted online, targeting radiographers across the UAE. The instrument utilized was a comprehensive and validated self-administered questionnaire developed based on relevant literature. The questionnaire incorporated sections to gauge radiographers' knowledge about ASD, their attitudes towards working with ASD children, and their adherence to recommended practices during radiographic examinations. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to describe KAP and identify any influencing factors. RESULTS: Radiographers demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge regarding ASD. Despite the knowledge, misconceptions about ASD nature were common. The radiographers generally acknowledged the need for special care for ASD children during radiographic procedures. High confidence in working with ASD children was noted, particularly among older participants, despite a clear interest in further training. Good adherence to recommended practices was observed, with physical restraints not being a common practice. However, areas for improvement were identified, such as the use of visual aids. CONCLUSION: Despite a moderate level of knowledge and good practices, there is a need to improve UAE radiographers' understanding and handling of ASD children. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This study highlights the need for enhancing ASD-specific knowledge and training and integrating supportive tools in radiographic procedures. This comprehensive approach could significantly improve the radiographic service quality for ASD children in the UAE.