Australian student radiographers' experiences and perspectives in general paediatric medical imaging examinations.
Radiography (Lond) 2023;
29:604-609. [PMID:
37075490 DOI:
10.1016/j.radi.2023.03.013]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Paediatric patients differ from adult patients with respect to anatomy, examination factors, behaviour, and intellectual development, requiring dedicated specialised knowledge and expertise. In the absence of a formal dedicated paediatric medical imaging subspecialty, this study undertook to understand student radiographers' experiences and perspectives on paediatric medical imaging.
METHODS
The study entailed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design entailed a 51-item closed and open-ended response questionnaire using a total sampling method. Data were collected from both under- and postgraduate student radiographers who undertook clinical placement. Data interpretation and analysis involved statistical analysis of close-ended questions and thematic analysis of open-ended questions.
RESULTS
The overall response rate was 70%. Most participants acknowledged the importance of dedicated paediatric content as well as the theory content covered. The shortcoming in pre-placement practical component was overcome through varied approaches like observations and attempting through supervision whilst experiencing uncertainty, anxiety and felt unfair to risk the patient. As reported in literature like their qualified counterparts expressed similar challenges in technique adaptation, styles of interactions in gaining cooperation from both the children and parents. They also felt paediatric content and the practicals should be embedded throughout the course offering to not compromise the day-to-day service delivery.
CONCLUSIONS
The study findings iterate the importance paediatric imaging in the service delivery context. The importance of undertaking these examinations reliant on experiential learning is insufficient to bridge the gap of preparation prior to placement.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE
Collaborative academic and clinical radiography education will ensure that radiography students' dedicated specialised paediatric imaging knowledge and experience are enhanced.
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