Assessment of diagnostic radiographers’ knowledge of work-related health problems and associated effects: A multicentre study in Ghana

Abstract

IntroductionWork-related health problems (WRHPs) are health conditions peculiar to a group of people or occupations including radiography in a specific work setting. These WRHPs occur as a result of prevailing work conditions which predispose workers to risks of physical or psychological distress. AimThis study assessed the knowledge of WRHPs among practicing radiographers in Ghana and evaluated the sources, causes, effects and preventive measures of WRHPs. MethodsA prospective cross-sectional design incorporating a quantitative data collection approach was used. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge and evaluate the effects of WRHPs among two cohorts of 31 practicing radiographers at a regional hospital (RH) and a teaching hospital (TH). ResultsAn average score of 4.2 (SD = 0.4) out of 5 (84.8%) obtained on the knowledge scale indicated very good knowledge of WRHPs among the radiographers. Physical work demands, ergonomic issues, increased workload and stress levels on on-duty radiographers due to sick absence by colleagues, large numbers of daily cases, and extra work without incentives were reported as WRHPs effects mostly experienced by the radiographers. The study also showed no significant difference between gender groups (p = 0.313), years of professional practice experience level (p = 0.319), and academic qualifications (p = 0.287) on knowledge of WRHPs. ConclusionRadiographers working in some referral and teaching hospitals in Ghana demonstrated very good knowledge of WRHPs and identified several effects of WRHPs on professional practice. Implication for practiceThe study concludes that WRHPs predispose radiographers to adverse health conditions, and administrative protocols are required to prevent or mitigate the burden.