Radiographer's competence in detecting radiological abnormalities from CT brain examinations.

Abstract

This study introduces the concept of radiographer reporting in Computerized Tomography (CT) examinations of the brain. The research study was designed in order to evaluate the competence of Maltese Radiographers' in detecting such radiological abnormalities. The study was also set to find out whether radiographers working in the CT suite at the local general hospital want to extend their present role by reporting these examinations. Currently at the local general hospital in Malta, no reporting duties are performed by radiographers; however the results showed that many radiographers wish to extend their present role by reporting such examinations. Methodology Data was collected in March 2009 by means of a research tool; this was composed of a set of 16 CT brain examinations, an abnormality detection sheet and a questionnaire. These were distributed to 7 radiographers who perform duties at the CT department. Results The results showed that collectively the Maltese radiographers compared well with the findings of other studies performed abroad. The results demonstrated that at this point in time the system of radiographer reporting CT head scans can be implemented at the local general hospital. All radiographers expressed their opinion quite positively towards reporting and believed that it would relieve radiologist workload and reduce patient waiting times whilst making the radiographer's profession more interesting. Conclusion Based on the findings of this study certain recommendations were proposed; these were the implementation of specialized training courses which may enable radiographers to legally report such examinations.