COVID-19 in the radiology department: What radiographers need to know

Abstract

Objectives: The aim is to review current literature related to the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of suspected and confirmed Covid-19 cases. Key findings: Medical Imaging plays an important auxiliary role in the diagnosis of Covid-19 patients, mainly those most seriously affected. Practice differs widely among different countries, mainly due to the variability of access to resources (viral testing and imaging equipment, specialised staff, protective equipment). It has been now well-documented that chest radiographs should be the first-line imaging tool and chest CT should only be reserved for critically ill patients, or when chest radiograph and clinical presentation may be inconclusive. Conclusion:As radiographers work on the frontline, they should be aware of the potential risks associated with Covid-19 and engage in optimal strategies to reduce these. Their role in vetting, conducting and often reporting the imaging examinations is vital, as well as their contribution in patient safety and care. Medical Imaging should be limited to critically ill patients, and where it may have an impact on the patient management plan. Implications for practice: At the time of publication, this review offers the most up-to-date recommendations for clinical practitioners in radiology departments, including radiographers. Radiography practice has to significantly adjust to these new requirements to support optimal and safe imaging practices for the diagnosis of Covid-19. The adoption of low dose CT, rigorous infection control protocols and optimal use of personal protective equipment may reduce the potential risks of radiation exposure and infection, respectively, within Radiology departments.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on radiography practice: findings from a UK radiography workforce survey

“… 21–25 In patient-facing environments, such as radiology departments, precautions to limit contamination between patients and/or other professionals in the management of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients, including strict adherence to a PPE protocol, is strongly advocated. 7,22,25 A large proportion of the RW (436/522; 83.6%) reported to have good knowledge of disease transmission, including the potential of cross-infection within the radiology department. This is broadly consistent with other studies 41–43 that similarly reported a higher understanding of infection prevention, control and compliance among healthcare workers.…”

“…Although strict adherence to these protocols (including increased PPE use and equipment decontamination) are fundamental for keeping both patients and the workforce safe. 7,21–25 …”

“…With growing global concerns about the pandemic and possibility of additional waves of infection, radiology departments have adopted several streamlined approaches towards practice to limit infection risk while optimising workflows, volumes and access. 7,21–23 Of note, current recommendations emphasise the importance of appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the implementation of strict infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols for the management of this pandemic. 7,21–25 It is also essential for departments to prioritise the health and well-being of the workforce during the pandemic.…”

“… 7,21–23 Of note, current recommendations emphasise the importance of appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the implementation of strict infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols for the management of this pandemic. 7,21–25 It is also essential for departments to prioritise the health and well-being of the workforce during the pandemic. 26–29 Previous studies that investigated workplace-related stressors among radiographers cited staff shortages, heavy workload and volume of patients as some of the key sources of occupational stress.…”

Modifications to mobile chest radiography technique during the COVID-19 pandemic – implications of X-raying through side room windows

“… 7 Management of patients with known or suspected Covid-19 includes Medical Imaging (radiography and computed tomography (CT)). 8 As reported by Stogiannos and colleagues 9 practice varies widely within different countries, mainly due to differences in the access of resources (testing, imaging equipment, specialist staff and protective equipment).…”