Occupational stress and wellbeing: A qualitative exploration of the perspectives and experiences of migrant sonographers practising in the United Kingdom

IF 2.5 Q2 RADIOLOGY, NUCLEAR MEDICINE & MEDICAL IMAGING

Radiography Pub Date : 2025-02-11 DOI:10.1016/j.radi.2025.01.017

C.U. Ollawa , O. Lawal , E. Akpan , E.R. Upeh , M.N. Kwame Anudjo

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Introduction

Occupational stress (OS) and burnout are prevalent in healthcare, including ultrasound. These challenges are exacerbated by staff shortages, increasing workload, and ageing population growth, leading to a growing reliance on ultrasound for diagnosis. In the UK, migrant sonographers fill critical staffing gaps but face unique work-related stressors that impact their well-being and mental health. This study explored the experiences and perspectives of migrant sonographers practising in the UK regarding OS and well-being.

Methods

Ethical approval was obtained from Health Sciences University, Bournemouth (HRS-2024-ECYBl). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 HCPC-registered migrant sonographers across ten regions in the UK who had experienced OS. These interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically using NVivo software. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed.

Results

Five major themes were developed: workplace dynamics, socioeconomic factors, practice-related factors, personal issues and coping mechanisms. Primary sources of stress identified were workload, difficult patients, managerial/leadership challenges, immigration issues, and lack of awareness of the procedure for reporting repetitive stress injury (RSI) and work-related stress.

Conclusion

The findings highlight unique stressors associated with migrant sonographers that negatively impact their mental and physical well-being and performance. Thus, emphasising the need for inclusive managerial approaches and culturally tailored support systems. Customised onboarding, stress management training, and RSI reporting protocols can enhance well-being, job satisfaction, and retention.

Implications for practice

Healthcare institutions must address the unique needs of migrant practitioners. Culturally competent onboarding programs and ongoing support systems should be prioritised to foster a resilient and satisfied workforce.

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来源期刊

Radiography RADIOLOGY, NUCLEAR MEDICINE & MEDICAL IMAGING-

CiteScore

4.70

自引率

34.60%

发文量

169

审稿时长

63 days

期刊介绍： Radiography is an International, English language, peer-reviewed journal of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy. Radiography is the official professional journal of the College of Radiographers and is published quarterly. Radiography aims to publish the highest quality material, both clinical and scientific, on all aspects of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy and oncology.