A survey of digital radiography practice in four South African teaching hospitals: an illuminative study
2010

Survey of Digital Radiography Practice in South African Teaching Hospitals

Sample size: 63 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Thulani Nyathi, TF Chirwa, DG van der Merwe

Primary Institution: University of the Witwatersrand

Hypothesis

How familiar are radiographers with digital radiography in South African teaching hospitals?

Conclusion

Participants are familiar with digital radiography but there is a need for improved quality control procedures.

Supporting Evidence

  • 31% of radiographers responded to the survey.
  • Only 15% of qualified radiographers had 4 or more years of experience with digital radiography.
  • 61% of participants had exposure to digital radiography during university lectures.
  • 55% of participants found it easier to retake images in digital radiography.
  • 16% of respondents had formal training in quality control procedures.

Takeaway

This study asked radiographers about their experiences with digital X-ray machines, and found that while they know how to use them, they need more training on quality checks.

Methodology

A questionnaire was distributed to qualified and student radiographers at four teaching hospitals to assess their familiarity and preferences with digital radiography.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to self-reporting and low response rate.

Limitations

The response rate was low, and the study was exploratory in nature.

Participant Demographics

63 radiographers, including 53 qualified and 10 student radiographers.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.2349/biij.6.1.e5

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