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Paterson A, Devlin L, Mitchell J, Ogg J, Farnan K, Coupland S, Duffton A. Survey of research attitudes of RTTs working in Scotland: A Scottish radiographer research forum collaboration. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2024; 30:100248. [PMID: 38707714 PMCID: PMC11067355 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2024.100248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Evidence-based practice (EBP) is associated with improved treatment outcomes and survival in cancer patients. Engagement from therapeutic radiographers/radiation therapists (RTTs) in research, has been identified as a challenge. The aim of this survey was to gain an understanding of RTT attitudes to research in Scotland. Methods This was a prospective study that used a mixed method cross-sectional survey, with an online survey tool (Webropol). The survey was developed with collaborators from all Scottish Radiotherapy Centres (n = 5) and piloted by 6 conveniently sampled RTT and validated by 8 experienced RTTs. The survey comprised 29 items, 7 selection-based demographic questions, and 18 statements with a Likert 5-point metric scale rating (1 = strongly disagree, 2 = disagree, 3 = neutral, 4 = agree, 5 = strongly agree). The validity was measured with the content validity index (CVI) and item-CVI by 8 experienced RTTs. Low scoring I-CVI (<0.78) questions were removed.A total of 314 RTTs working in Scottish Radiotherapy Centres were invited to participate. Approvals were given by each Head of department (HoD), who also confirmed number of RTTs. Results A total of 102/314 (32.5 %) RTTs responded. The majority of RTTs agreed they were confident they had sufficient research skills to inform EBP (n = 58/102, 56.9 %), felt confident discussing EBP with colleagues (n = 67, 65.7 %) and felt research was important for role development (n = 89, 87.2 %). Low mean scores and standard deviation (SD) were observed for the following: "I know how to get involved in research" 3.2 (1.2), "I have been given the opportunity to get involved in research" 3.2 (1.1), and "I am well informed about current research projects in my department" 3.2 (1.1). 57.8 % (n = 59) of RTTs disagreed they were confident adequate time would be provided to be involved in research. Conclusion The survey results demonstrated a predominantly positive attitude to research amongst RTTs working in Scottish centres, with most common perceived barriers being access to protected time and staff; training, and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Paterson
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Lynsey Devlin
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences and University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Mitchell
- Edinburgh Cancer Centre, Fettes College, 2 Carrington Road, Edinburgh EH4 1QJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline Ogg
- Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty Farnan
- Ninewells Radiotherapy Department, James Arrott Drive, Dundee DD2 1UB, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Coupland
- Raigmore Hospital Inverness, Old Perth Road, Inverness IV2 3UJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Aileen Duffton
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0YN, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences and University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Oliveira M, Hogg P, Di Prospero L, Lacey S, El-Farra S, Johansen S. Research activity among diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers: An international survey. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2024; 55:232-243. [PMID: 38403518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2024.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Oliveira
- Department of Heath Technology and Biology, Federal Institute of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Lisa Di Prospero
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Practice-Based Research and Innovation, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen Lacey
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Australia; Director of Education International Society for Radiographers and Radiation Technologists (ISRRT)
| | - Samar El-Farra
- Higher Colleges of Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates; Radiographers Society of Emirates, Board - United Arab Emirates
| | - Safora Johansen
- Health Faculty, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway; Cancer Treatment Department, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Singapore Institution of Technology, Health and Social Sciences, Singapore.
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Alshamrani KM, Alkenawi AA, Kaifi RE, Alhulil KA, Munshi WM, Alqurayqiri AF, Alshehri FA, Abdulmannan HI, Ghulam EM, Tasslaq SE, Aldhebaib AM. The barriers, motives, perceptions, and attitudes toward research among radiology practitioners and interns in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1266285. [PMID: 37877018 PMCID: PMC10593452 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1266285] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Research and the use of evidence-based practices are imperative to the advancement of diagnostic imaging modalities. The aim of this study was to assess the perceptions and attitudes of radiology practitioners (i.e., Technicians, Technologists or Specialists, and Senior Specialists) and interns in King Abdulaziz Medical Cities (KAMCs), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, toward research, and to explore the various barriers and obstacles that hinder their research efforts. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive investigation was carried out from December 2022 to March 2023 among 112-KAMCs' radiology practitioners and interns, using previously developed and validated questionnaire comprised of five distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose, and with a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Descriptive statistics were generated for participants' demographics, and chi-square and fisher's exact tests were used to examine the association between participants' demographics and their involvement in research. Results Among the 137 KAMCs' radiology practitioners and interns who were invited to participate, 112 responded and completed the questionnaire, resulting in an overall response rate of 81.75%. Radiology practitioners and interns from various medical imaging subspecialties were found to be involved in research to the extent of 83%, with nearly half (40.9%) of them have had publications, and 53.3% of these publications being either cross-sectional studies or retrospective clinical studies. A lack of time (66.1%), a lack of a professional supervisor support program (50.9%), and deficiency in research skills (45.5%) were common obstacles that may impede the participants' ability to conduct research. The most common motives for participants to conduct research were the desire to improve their resumes (69.6%), get accepted into postgraduate radiology programs (58%), and improve their research skills (52.7%). Conclusion KAMCs' radiology practitioners and interns have a positive attitude toward performing research. Despite the high percentage (83%) of those involved in research, the number of publications remains low. A crucial step to advancing the profession's evidence base is engaging radiology practitioners and interns in research and encouraging radiology practitioner-led research. The study findings can serve as a valuable basis for designing developmental programs aimed at overcoming research obstacles among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid M. Alshamrani
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkader A. Alkenawi
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reham E. Kaifi
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled A. Alhulil
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael M. Munshi
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz F. Alqurayqiri
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal A. Alshehri
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hawazen I. Abdulmannan
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Enas M. Ghulam
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameer E. Tasslaq
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M. Aldhebaib
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Bolejko A, Andersson BT, Debess J, Fridell K, Henner A, Sanderud A, Saukko E, Mussmann BR. Facilitators for and barriers to radiography research in public healthcare in Nordic countries. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 28:88-94. [PMID: 34474944 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It has been suggested that the future of diagnostic imaging relies on engagement in research and evidence-based practice. This implies a role transition from a clinical radiographer to a clinical radiographer-researcher. Clinical radiographers' stimuli for engaging in research in Nordic countries are unknown. This study aimed to address this gap. METHODS Cross-sectional data collection via an online questionnaire on facilitators for and barriers to participation in radiography research was carried out among 507 clinical radiographers in public healthcare in the Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. RESULTS Support from colleagues (odds ratio [OR] 2.62) and other professionals (OR 2.74), and self-esteem in research skills (OR ≥ 2.21), were facilitators for radiography research. Lack of knowledge and skills to conduct research (OR 2.48) was revealed to hinder radiographers' participation in research. The absence of a radiography research culture in the workplace explained non-participation in research (OR 1.75). CONCLUSION This study revealed significant factors for clinical radiographers' participation in research. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE A strategy for establishing a radiography research culture in healthcare is proposed that is novel for the context. Management support for knowledge development and activity leading to inter-professional research projects across knowledge fields, provision of a radiography research lead and acknowledgement of radiography research among colleagues signify the establishment of the culture. These prerequisites might provide a paradigm change towards not only the symbiosis of a clinical radiographer and an autonomous researcher but also a partner who adds radiography research to evidence-based practice in diagnostic imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bolejko
- Department of Translational Medicine, Department of Medical Imaging and Physiology, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - B T Andersson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - J Debess
- University College of Northern Jutland, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - K Fridell
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Henner
- School of Health and Social Care, Oulu University of Applied Sciences Ltd, Oulu, Finland
| | - A Sanderud
- Department of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - E Saukko
- Department of Radiology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - B R Mussmann
- Research and Innovation Unit of Radiology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Saukko E, Andersson B, Bolejko A, Debess J, Fridell K, Henner A, Mussmann B, Sanderud A. Radiographers' involvement in research activities and opinions on radiography research: A Nordic survey. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27:867-872. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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England A, McNulty JP. Inclusion of evidence and research in European radiography curricula. Radiography (Lond) 2020; 26 Suppl 2:S45-S48. [PMID: 32444326 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2020.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide a short reflective article discussing the extent to which evidence and research are included within radiography training curricula and whether there is a need for change and greater standardisation. FINDINGS Great steps have been taken to harmonise aspects of radiography training programmes across Europe, however, variations do exist, especially in the areas of clinical practice, training hours and inclusion of specific curriculum topics. Limited evidence exists regarding the inclusion of evidence and research; thus, diversity is likely. The majority of training curricula follow the Bologna cycle and both research and evidence components are likely to be included within teaching and assessment. Wider questions exist regarding maintaining and developing the research and evidence culture within the radiography profession. Education institutions will play an important role in this process. CONCLUSION Limited evidence exists regarding the inclusion of 'evidence' and 'research' themes within European radiography training curricula. Undoubtedly, there is a need for these themes, but this must be balanced with other demands on the curriculum and how research is likely to evolve within the profession. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Greater clarity is needed on how evidence and research are to be included within radiography training curricula. A single model is unlikely to be suitable for all, curricula should focus on the requirements for the newly qualified graduate and the radiography profession as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- A England
- School of Health & Society, University of Salford, UK; European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - J P McNulty
- European Federation of Radiographer Societies, Utrecht, the Netherlands; School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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