Evolving radiographic practice: Identifying possible skill requirements for future radiographers practicing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

AIM: This study aims to identify the prospective skill requirements for future radiographers practising in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Such information will inform educational institutions, healthcare organisations, and policymakers in developing effective strategies. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving currently practising radiographers, nuclear medicine technologists, sonographers, and radiation therapists in the UAE (n =74). A comprehensive survey questionnaire was developed and validated through piloting and expert consultations. Ethical approval was obtained, and data were collected through purposive sampling. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, Chi-square tests, and factor analysis were employed in the data analysis. RESULTS: The results showed that 73%, 47.3%, 43.2%, 40.5%, 39.2%, 33.8% interested in radiology safety, image interpretation, interprofessional and interpersonal skills, research and managerial skills, Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) administration and AI (Artificial Intelligence) and, clinical supervision and assessment, respectively. The factor analysis showed four factors factor considered for CPD training are training settings (15.12), training topics (1.88), CPD credits (1.72) and, presenter and expenses (1.49). CONCLUSION: This study sheds light on the CPD requirements and aspirations of radiographers in the UAE, offering insights into their preferences and challenges. These findings can inform strategies for improving CPD opportunities and ensuring that radiographers are equipped to meet the evolving healthcare demands in the UAE, including performing enhanced practice. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Development of flexible and comprehensive CPD programmes tailored to radiographers' career interests is required. Employers should provide financial support and flexibility in training options. Regulatory bodies should continue to mandate CPD, fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Supportive work environments, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technological fluency are crucial. Emphasising patient-centred care, research opportunities, and continuous assessment further enhances radiography practice.

Knowledge of Medical Imaging Professionals on Healthcare-Associated Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) are a significant concern for both healthcare professionals and patients. With recent advances in imaging modalities, there is an increase in patients visiting the radiology department for diagnosis and therapeutic examination. The equipment used for the investigator is contaminated, which may result in HCAIs to the patients and healthcare professionals. Medical imaging professionals (MIPs) should have adequate knowledge to overcome the spread of infection in the radiology department. This systematic review aimed to examine the literature on the knowledge and precaution standard of MIPs on HCIAs. This study was performed with a relative keyword using PRISMA guidelines. The articles were retrieved from 2000 to 2022 using Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest databases. The NICE public health guidance manual was used to assess the quality of the full-length article. The search yielded 262 articles, of which Scopus published 13 articles, PubMed published 179 articles, and ProQuest published 55 articles. In the present review, out of 262 articles, only 5 fulfilled the criteria that reported MIPs' knowledge of Jordan, Egypt, Sri Lanka, France, and Malawi populations. The present review reported that MIPs have moderate knowledge and precautionary standards regarding HCIAs in the radiology department. However, due to the limited studies published in the literature, the current review limits the application of the outcome in the vast MIPs population. This review recommended further studies to be conducted among the MIPs worldwide to know the actual knowledge and precaution standards regarding HCIAs.

Development and Validation of a Tool to Assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Women Towards Screening Mammography.

Background: Breast cancer is a major public health concern in both developing and developed countries. The mortality rate of breast cancer is high in India due to late detection, and lack of knowledge about the screening mammography. The objective of this study was to develop and establish the psychometric properties of the tool. Method: A qualitative method was used to carry out the development and validation of a tool to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception of women towards screening mammography using a cross-sectional study design. Data analyzed using the SPSS 16 were descriptive, and Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to standardize the tool. Results: The pilot test, content validity, and internal consistency reliability of the final 25 items were found to be highly adequate. Intra- class correlations of this questionnaire were considered acceptable. Cronbach's alpha score was 0.825. Conclusion: A valid scale has been developed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and perception of women toward screening mammography. The scale is adequately responsive to test the knowledge and possesses strong internal consistency. Lack of knowledge among the general population about the screening mammography. It is recommended to conduct an educational program to enhance knowledge about screening mammography. The questionnaires can be used for evaluating the knowledge, attitude, and perception of women toward screening mammography. Broadening the concept for further questionnaires tool development of knowledge, attitude, and perception of women towards screening mammography in other geographical areas.