Assessment of Nursing Competency Among Radiology Technologists in Yemen

Abstract

Radiology technologists’ competencies in nursing practices are critical in providing optimum health care in radiology departments. The aim of this study was to assess the essential nursing competencies among radiology technologists in Yemen. A cross-sectional study was conducted during July-August 2022. A total of 348 radiology technologists participated in this work and completed an online-based questionnaire. The results revealed that more than half of the participants (61.78%) had an adequate level of nursing competency. The results also demonstrated wide variations in nursing practice among radiology technologists. The highest rated nursing competencies focused on protection of patient's integrity, alleviation of patient's anxiety, and adaptability of radiologic examination of the patient's needs, whereas the lowest rated nursing competencies focused on prescribing the suitable drugs in emergency condition, encountering the drugs complications during radiological examinations, and performing some nursing procedures. Furthermore, the findings exhibited the significant association between nursing competency of radiology technologists and some of sociodemographic factors particularly related to age, working experience, and education level. In conclusion, radiology technologists displayed an average level of nursing competencies that needs to be enhanced through continuing learning and training programs. Knowledge about radiology technologists' competencies in nursing practice is critical for planning and performing strategies in professional training and education of radiology technologists.