Open AccessA comparison of Saudi Arabian and Australian radiographers' perceptions of computed tomography radiation dose
Author(s) -
Al Mohiy H,
Sim J,
Annabell N,
Seeram E,
Davidson R
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
radiographer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.484
H-Index - 18
eISSN - 2051-3909
pISSN - 0033-8273
DOI - 10.1002/j.2051-3909.2012.tb00186.x
Subject(s) - medicine , computed tomography , radiation dose , medical physics , perception , radiology , nuclear medicine , psychology , neuroscience
Abstract Background : Computed tomography (CT) is a powerful diagnostic tool, but the radiation delivered to paediatric patients needs to be kept to a minimum. Thus, CT education and protocols must be continuously reviewed, particularly with respect to paediatric CT examinations. Purpose : To investigate the knowledge and perceptions of paediatric CT radiographers from Australia and Saudi Arabia regarding paediatric CT dose. Methods : Interviews were conducted with CT radiographers working in dedicated paediatric hospitals during 2010. Their training and perceptions of paediatric CT radiation dose were evaluated, along with their departments' policies. Actual dose measurements from their departments were compared to their perceptions to reveal radiographers' awareness of their department's typical dose relative to those delivered by their contemporaries. Results : Almost all surveyed radiographers were willing to minimise their radiation dose, but many Saudi Arabian radiographers were not allowed to make any changes to their CT protocols. CT protocols in Saudi Arabia were wholly defined by the CT machine vendors' recommendations, whereas most Australian CT protocols were established following reviews of the appropriate literature. Conclusion : Australian and Saudi Arabian CT radiographers' training and perceptions of paediatric CT dose vary substantially, and differences exist in terms of workplace culture. Continuous professional development will assist Saudi Arabian radiographers to reduce CT radiation dose.