Evaluating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on radiographers working in computed tomography (CT) in Malta

Abstract

Introduction: Imaging has played a crucial role in diagnosing COVID-19. CT radiographers were working daily on the frontline to deliver care to infected patients. Increased workload, burnout, inadequate PPEs and training, and the fear of contracting the virus could have contributed to psychological pressure. Psychological support should be offered by the institution. Objectives: The main objective behind this study is to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on local CT radiographers specifically on their anxiety, stress, fear, well-being, and workload. Perceived support offered will also be assessed. Methodology: A mixed method research design split in two phases was used. In phase 1 a questionnaire was distributed amongst radiographers who worked in CT during the pandemic. A total of 18 returned questionnaires sought out information about the impact of COVID-19 on, practice, infection control and use of PPEs, stress and available support system, fear, and anxiety. In phase 2, four semi-structured interviews were performed. Results: CT radiographers felt an increase in their workload. A perceived lack of training in CT, training in infection control practices and lack of PPEs was acknowledged. Radiographers felt that there was a lot of misinformation and a constant change in protocols. The risk of infecting their family was a major stressor. Participants expressed high fear and stress levels in March 2020 and three suffered from dysfunctional anxiety. There was a statistically significant reduction in anxiety, stress, and fear levels from March 2020 to April 2022. Approximately half of the participants indicated that there was not enough social and psychological support available at work. Psychological help might have aided in dealing with stress, fear, and anxiety. Conclusion: The pandemic created a stressful situation at work for CT radiographers. Infection control practices, training, communication between staff and team building activities should be prioritised by the department.