Safety related for lone working magnetic resonance technologists in Southern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

ObjectiveWorking in the magnetic resonance imaging unit as a lone MR technologist is associated with high risk (such as projectile and thermal burns). The safety in the MRI environment could be a major concern for a single worker in absence of a partner. This study aims to assess the safety of lone MR technologists in Saudi Arabia's Southern Regions. Material and methodsA cross-sectional study using a self-report questionnaire was carried out in 23 hospitals, between public and private in Southern regions of Saudi Arabia. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. ResultsThe response rate from MR technologists was 79% (73/92). The study found that most MR technologists have an experience with lone working (84%), the privet hospitals tends to arrange MR technologists to work alone (p-value 0.044). Lone working is associated with a higher rate of occurrence of accidents/mistakes and concerns (64.3% and 65.57%, respectively) compared to working as an MR technologist in the presence of other medical staff (such as nurses) which appeared as follows (54.8% and 59.65%, respectively); both types of workers individually showed a high level of self-confidence. The MRI safety policies were followed in 84% of departments. However, 71% of participants showed poor awareness about the regulations of lone working, and only about half of the technologists got training in MRI safety. ConclusionMR technologists from Southern Saudi Arabia regions had experience with lone working in the MRI unit. The rate of working alone was associated with a higher level of concerns and accidents/mistakes. There is a need to raise MR technologists’ awareness regarding MRI safety regulations.