Association between psychosocial risks and performance of radiology technicians in emergency context: outcomes of a cross-section study

Abstract

Abstract Background The workers' demand, the introduction of new technologies and the increase in working hours are some of the main factors that result in the emergence of psychosocial risks. These risks compromise workers mental and physical health, and the well-being, leading to consequences not only at the individual level but also at the organizational level. This work aims to determine the capacity of the radiology technicians to work, the psychosocial risks to which they may be exposed, as well as the possible influence of these on their professional performance. Methods The Work Ability Index (ICT) and the psychosocial risk scale identified as Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) were applied in a sample of 29 professionals (urgency sector of the University Hospital of Coimbra, Portugal), from a universe of 36 radiology technicians. Results The ICT did not differ according to gender, age and qualification among the professionals under study. However, single technicians presented better ICT compared to the other groups. Radiology technicians with a bachelor's degree were more exposed to psychosocial risks in terms of job performance, transparency of the work role, professional rewards, justice and respect, as well as professional self-efficacy. Conclusions Studies on psychosocial risks have shown the importance of understanding how the former directly and indirectly influence the professional performance of workers, but also the need to develop strategies to prevent the same risks by improving working conditions and performance of the workers.