One year's results from a server-based system for performing reject analysis and exposure analysis in computed radiography.

Rejected images represent both unnecessary radiation exposure to patients and inefficiency in the imaging operation. Rejected images are inherent to projection radiography, where patient positioning and alignment are integral components of image quality. Patient motion and artifacts unique to digital image receptor technology can result in rejected images also. We present a centralized, server-based solution for the collection, archival, and distribution of rejected image and exposure indicator data that automates the data collection process. Reject analysis program (RAP) and exposure indicator data were collected and analyzed during a 1-year period. RAP data were sorted both by reason for repetition and body part examined. Data were also stratified by clinical area for further investigation. The monthly composite reject rate for our institution fluctuated between 8% and 10%. Positioning errors were the main cause of repeated images (77.3%). Stratification of data by clinical area revealed that areas where computed radiography (CR) is seldom used suffer from higher reject rates than areas where it is used frequently. S values were log-normally distributed for examinations performed under either manual or automatic exposure control. The distributions were positively skewed and leptokurtic. S value decreases due to radiologic technology student rotations, and CR plate reader calibrations were observed. Our data demonstrate that reject analysis is still necessary and useful in the era of digital imaging. It is vital though that analysis be combined with exposure indicator analysis, as digital radiography is not self-policing in terms of exposure. When combined, the two programs are a powerful tool for quality assurance.

Patient exam data reconciliation tool.

Since the introduction of Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS) into the medical radiology community, the efficiency and workflow of radiology departments adopting this technology has been improved to a degree much greater than initially anticipated. Although technological advances fuel efficiency and improve workflow, medical mistakes become prevalent as a result. This observation underscores the need for active measures by PACS quality assurance personnel to prevent human and machine errors from contributing to the total of avoidable medical errors, particularly in the area of diagnostic imaging.

Patient exam data reconciliation tool.

Since the introduction of Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS) into the medical radiology community, the efficiency and workflow of radiology departments adopting this technology has been improved to a degree much greater than initially anticipated. Although technological advances fuel efficiency and improve workflow, medical mistakes become prevalent as a result. This observation underscores the need for active measures by PACS quality assurance personnel to prevent human and machine errors from contributing to the total of avoidable medical errors, particularly in the area of diagnostic imaging.