Guidance for radiographers providing forensic services in Malta

Abstract

Introduction: In the majority of cases where there is a suspicious or accidental death, radiographers are required to perform planar x-ray imaging of the cadaver or body part. Research Objectives: The research objectives of this study were to explore what are the procedures which are followed in forensic imaging locally and to explore what the stakeholders in forensic medicine think should be included in the guidelines which the researcher intended to create for the radiographers in Malta. Also, the main aim of this study was to create a set of guidelines which radiographers in Malta could follow before and during imaging, so as to ensure that appropriate procedures are continuously followed and to safeguard the preservation of vital forensic evidence. Methodology: This study was conducted using a cross-sectional, non-experimental survey design. A structured interview designed for forensic experts, together with a questionnaire designed for the radiographers, were utilised for the collection of data which aided in the formulation of guidelines for radiographers performing forensic imaging. Results: The findings of this study indicated that radiographers felt that guidelines would be useful in their work especially for standardisation purposes, even though it has to be acknowledged that not all radiographers were in favour of the formation and implementation of such guidelines. After the data collection, it could also be concluded that forensic imaging guidelines as well as forensic imaging training is needed since not all radiographers were constant in their answers about procedures and about their knowledge on the subject. Conclusion: From the data collected, the researcher found out the procedures that are followed in forensic imaging cases in Malta and with this data, the researcher compiled a set of forensic imaging guidelines that could be adopted in the Medical Imaging Department.