Radiographic technique modification and evidence‐based practice: A qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: Evidence-based practice in radiography is an emerging practice, due to a lack of evidence. Beyond the diagnostic requirements of the examination, imaging technique decisions are guided by the radiographer's tertiary education and clinical experience. Imaging technique decisions should include all aspects of evidence-based practice: research-based evidence, patient circumstances and clinical experience. Previous research suggests radiographers do to not fully engage with the latter, which may jeopardise progress in the field and lead to outdated practices and suboptimal outcomes for patients. This study aimed to examine the motivators and influences involved in radiographers' decision-making when modifying imaging acquisition techniques. Methods: An exploratory descriptive, inductive qualitative interview-based design was used with a convenience sample of radiographers from three public hospital sites in Queensland. Twelve one-on-one semistructured interviews were performed via video conference, the data were analysed through thematic analysis. Results: Five themes emerged from the data: advancement of technology; experience rather than evidence; radiology's influence on radiographic practice; information sources; and image quality. The pursuit of image quality was the key motivator and criterion that influenced radiographers' choices in imaging technique modification. Interviewees did not engage routinely with research-based evidence, preferring to rely on empirical observations and professional experience. Conclusion: The exclusion of research-based evidence can lead to outdated and ineffective clinical decisions. Further work is needed to promote more research in the field of radiography and increase the willingness and capacity of radiographers to follow the principles of evidence-based practice.

Radiographers’ perspectives on interactional processes during older persons diagnostic medical imaging encounters: a qualitative study

“…Moreover, participants identified several modifications to standard practices to overcome challenges associated with the neurodegeneration and physical immobility of some elderly patients. Several studies have supported the reliance on adaptive techniques to assist with the positioning of patients, while maintaining comfort and imaging quality [ 31 – 32 ]. Building upon the idea of modifications to standard practices, some participants pointed out that it is equally important not to assume all elderly patients have the same needs and preferences.…”