An investigation of advanced practice carried out by radiographers in New South Wales

Abstract

AbstractPurpose: This study investigated advanced practices carried out by radiographers in New South Wales (NSW). Background: Due to a chronic shortage of radiologists, radiographers in the United Kingdom have extended their clinical roles. These additional responsibilities have increased professional accountability, as well as improved the quality of care provided to patients. While it is likely that such professional role extension occurs in Australia, no known study has been performed to date on this topic. Methods: Questionnaires were mailed to Chief Radiographers of medical imaging departments (MIDs) across NSW. Questions related to MIDs demographics and advanced practices of radiographers including triage systems, formal and informal reporting, cannulation, intravenous contrast media administration, roles during diagnostic enemas, and involvement in research. Returned questionnaires were analysed. Results: A total of 69 questionnaires were returned from 115 distributed (60%). Seventeen percent of MIDs with an Emergency department had radiographers involved in the triage process; 39% of MIDs utilised a radiographer‐reported abnormality detection system, whilst 30% provided a verbal report. Radiographer‐performed cannulations and intravenous contrast media administration occurred in 77% and 79% of MIDs respectively. A total of 40% reported radiographers performing roles other than image acquisition during diagnostic enemas, radiographers participated in research in 13% of MIDs while radiographer clinical presentations, journal club participation and conference organisation occurred in 45%, 7%, and 38% of MIDs respectively. Conclusions: This exploratory study provides important baseline information on the extended roles of radiographers in NSW. The results could be used for future planning of radiographer roles and health service delivery techniques.