RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103195
H Yusuff, T Willaume, E Breton, G Bierry, J-P Dillenseger
{"title":"Morphological MRI knee phantoms: Design, preliminary results, and perspectives for applied research.","authors":"H Yusuff, T Willaume, E Breton, G Bierry, J-P Dillenseger","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103195","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103195","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>There is currently no MRI phantom capable of generating high-precision anatomical images in musculoskeletal (MSK) imaging. Yet, such phantoms, also referred to as \"super-phantoms\", could offer substantial value for MRI sequence testing, optimization, and applied research.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>In this study, we focused on the knee region, creating phantoms based on reference MRI slices. Using computer-aided design (CAD) software, detailed anatomical structures were modeled, 3D printed, and filled with tissue-mimicking gels. MRI acquisitions were then performed to evaluate the potential of these tools.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The resulting images demonstrated high anatomical fidelity and clinically realistic MRI-weighted contrasts. These phantoms show promise for a range of applications, including training, sequence optimization, hardware evaluation, and ethical aspects.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Although technical refinements are needed to improve long-term stability and achieve more accurate relaxometry, the phantoms hold strong potential for supporting applied MRI research.</p><p><strong>Implication for practice: </strong>This new type of phantom can be considered an original and versatile tool for sequence development and hardware comparison. Moreover, it represents a valuable means to promote evidence-based practices and encourage MRI professionals (e.g. radiographers) to engage in applied research initiatives.</p>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"103195"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145309686","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103193
N L S Maharani, I Z Tungga Dewi, W M Darma, A F Amalia, R Rifai, G B Suparta
{"title":"A multifunctional geometric phantom for digital radiography assessment.","authors":"N L S Maharani, I Z Tungga Dewi, W M Darma, A F Amalia, R Rifai, G B Suparta","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103193","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103193","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Geometric accuracy in digital radiography is essential for maintaining image quality, diagnostic reliability, and regulatory compliance. Misalignments in beam orientation can introduce distortion, affect spatial measurements, and compromise diagnostic outcomes. Despite its importance, current quality control (QC) tools rarely provide integrated assessments of all relevant geometric parameters.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A modular three-layer geometric phantom was developed to assess beam perpendicular, beam area alignment, magnification, and object displacement. Radiographic tests were conducted using varied focus-to-detector distance (FDD) (50, 60, and 70 cm). Measurements were extracted from radiographic images using image processing software, and statistical analyses were applied to evaluate the relationship between magnification and displacement.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>At shorter FDD, beam deviation increased, with a maximum angular deviation of 0.28° at 50 cm. Beam alignment deviation ranged from 2.00 % at 50 cm to 1.29 % at 70 cm, all within acceptable limits. Object magnification increased significantly with greater object-detector distance and smaller FDD. A strong linear correlation was found between magnification and displacement (r = 0.9987, p < 0.0001), with an estimated displacement increase of ±0.56 mm for every 0.01 magnification unit.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The proposed phantom effectively quantifies geometric deviations in digital radiography, producing consistent and statistically robust measurements across varied imaging conditions. These findings highlight its potential as a reliable and practical tool for quality control applications.</p><p><strong>Implication for practice: </strong>This phantom offers a cost-effective, adaptable solution for routine QC procedures in radiographic imaging. Its ability to directly quantify geometric errors supports more precise calibration, reduces the risk of image distortion, and enhances diagnostic confidence. Adoption of this tool in clinical and regulatory settings can improve patient safety and standardize imaging performance evaluation.</p>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"103193"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145309643","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103198
W Elshami
{"title":"Comment to: Evaluating the rigour and application of phenomenological studies in medical radiation science research: A methodological review.","authors":"W Elshami","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103198","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103198","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":" ","pages":"103198"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145309702","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-14DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103200
R Kilday, M Chau
{"title":"Remote X-ray operators in Australia: A scoping review of self-perceived radiographic competence and educational needs.","authors":"R Kilday, M Chau","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103200","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103200","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Remote X-ray Operators (RXOs) are non-radiographer healthcare workers who perform basic radiographic examinations in rural and remote areas due to workforce shortages. RXOs frequently report low confidence in their radiographic skills and limited access to continuing professional education (CPE). This scoping review maps the available evidence on RXOs' self-perceived competence and educational needs.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Medline, CINAHL, and Embase were searched for studies published between January 2004 and August 2024. Eligible studies focused on RXO training, competence, or educational needs. Data were extracted on study aims, methods, and reported outcomes. A descriptive synthesis was used to identify key themes across the included literature.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Nine studies were included. Recurring themes included RXOs' limited confidence in key radiographic tasks, reliance on radiographers for supervision and training, and significant barriers to accessing CPE due to geographic isolation. Training models varied considerably across jurisdictions, with inconsistent supervision and credentialing. Studies reported improved outcomes when RXOs had access to structured, practical training and radiographer-led support.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>RXOs consistently identify gaps in their radiographic knowledge and express strong interest in further education. Flexible and standardised CPE models, delivered through remote supervision, digital tools, and targeted mentorship, may help address variability in training and support across regions.</p><p><strong>Implications for practice: </strong>Expanding access to remote learning platforms and radiographer mentorship could strengthen RXO preparedness and service delivery. Nationally consistent licensing and training requirements may improve care quality and patient safety in underserved settings.</p>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"103200"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145303975","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-11DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103190
R Tulloch, E Wyke, A Drake, E Edwards, G Coleman, L Ford, D Holdcroft, B Whitehead, E Hyde
{"title":"Modified Delphi study - A UK diagnostic radiography standardised clinical assessment tool.","authors":"R Tulloch, E Wyke, A Drake, E Edwards, G Coleman, L Ford, D Holdcroft, B Whitehead, E Hyde","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103190","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103190","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Clinical education forms the cornerstone of pre-registration training for diagnostic radiography learners in the United Kingdom (UK). While all accredited programmes meet the standards required, variations exist in clinical assessment processes, raising questions about parity and consistency. This paper outlines the findings of a modified-Delphi study used to inform the development of a national standardised clinical assessment tool (CAT).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A three-round modified-Delphi study was conducted, where individual opinions were collated and combined to reach a group consensus with support from a project steering group. Consensus was sought on elements to include in the CAT with detailed proposals for: an integrated review process; clinical proficiencies; professional behaviours; marking criteria; roles and responsibilities.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>110 participants completed round one, 67 completed round two and 57 completed round three with participants comprised of diagnostic radiography academics, clinicians and learners across the UK. Consensus was reached for the integrated review process, roles and responsibilities, professional behaviours and draft elements with a final list of sixteen clinical proficiencies, eight professional behaviours and a marking criteria to assess these domains. Areas of contention included using grades or percentages, the inclusion of summative one-day assessments, and use of terms such as ''projectional radiography''.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The proposed CAT is the first national, consensus-based standardised CAT in the UK for pre-registration diagnostic radiography. There is need for a pilot programme and development of clinical assessor training to ensure that the proposed CAT is valid, reliable and fit-for-purpose.</p><p><strong>Implications for practice: </strong>By standardising the clinical assessment process, the proposed CAT could promote parity in UK diagnostic radiography clinical education, improving assessor and learner experience, increasing collaboration between institutions and potentially contributing to an increase in clinical placement capacity.</p>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"103190"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145281385","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-11DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103192
M El Kafhali, M Tahmasbi, A Rahmouni, M Khalis, A El Moutaoukkil, R Sebihi, A El Kessioui
{"title":"Advanced monitoring of TOF+PSF reconstruction performance in digital PET/CT: Clinical implications from the uMI 550 evaluation.","authors":"M El Kafhali, M Tahmasbi, A Rahmouni, M Khalis, A El Moutaoukkil, R Sebihi, A El Kessioui","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103192","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103192","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Advancements in digital PET/CT technology have enabled more precise quantification and image quality optimization. This study evaluated the reconstruction performance of the uMI 550 digital PET/CT system using standardized phantoms, focusing on reconstruction algorithms incorporating Time-of-Flight (TOF) and Point Spread Function (PSF) modeling. Unlike prior uMI 550 evaluations, this study integrates uncertainty-based analysis and longitudinal QC correlations to determine optimal reconstruction conditions.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Performance assessments followed NEMA NU 2-2007 protocols with a NEMA IEC image quality phantom and QC phantoms. The analysis examined contrast recovery, image noise, and standardized uptake value (SUV) metrics (SUVmax (single hottest voxel), SUVmean (average uptake in a region), and SUVpeak (average uptake within a fixed 1 cm<sup>3</sup> around the hottest area)), under varying reconstruction settings, with integration of uncertainty modeling and quality-control (QC) correlations. Count-rate performance was assessed using Noise Equivalent Count Rate (NECR) and true count rate.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Contrast recovery rose from 89.1 % at iteration 1-152.2 % at iteration 4, after which further iterations increased noise without added benefit. SUVmean remained stable (1.01 ± 0.03), SUVpeak converged rapidly with minimal sensitivity to reconstruction, while SUVmax overshot to 1.34 by iteration 6 due to edge artifacts. Count-rate analysis showed peak NECR at 17.2 kBq/mL and maximum true count rate of 479.4 kcps at 26.3 kBq/mL, with quantification errors consistently below 5 %. Correlation analysis (r > 0.85) identified SUVpeak, SUVmean, NECR, and contrast recovery as the most influential QC parameters.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>SUVpeak emerged as the most robust quantitative biomarker, providing practical guidance for protocol optimization, harmonized PET/CT workflows, and long-term system monitoring.</p><p><strong>Implications for practice: </strong>Adopting evidence-based reconstruction strategies and consistent QC can improve diagnostic confidence and standardization in clinical PET/CT imaging.</p>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"103192"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145281398","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-10DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103180
M J Pereira, M Abrantes, P Matafome, J Santos
{"title":"Establishing BMI-specific diagnostic reference levels for radiotherapy planning CT in breast and prostate cancer: A retrospective Portuguese study.","authors":"M J Pereira, M Abrantes, P Matafome, J Santos","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103180","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2025.103180","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Given the increase in obesity prevalence, there is also a higher number of patients with high body mass index (BMI) undergoing radiotherapy treatments. Besides the fact that diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) are defined for standard patients, they are an important tool to promote all patient safety. This study aimed to analyse typical radiotherapy planning computed tomography (CT) dose levels for breast and prostate cancer, for three BMI patient categorisations.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Radiotherapy planning CT for the clinical indication of breast and prostate radiotherapy were retrospectively selected. Data of exposure and dose levels were collected and compared between three Portuguese institutions of excellence on Oncology and based on BMI categorisation according to WHO recommendations: Normal weight 18.5-24.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>; Overweight 25-29.99 kg/m<sup>2</sup>; Obesity ≥30 kg/m<sup>2</sup>.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>248 breast and 281 prostate radiotherapy planning CTs were analysed (total n = 529). Significant differences were found for CT dose index (CTDI<sub>vol</sub>), total dose length product (DLP<sub>t</sub>), and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) values per BMI categorisations and institutions. The obtained dose values for breast cancer clinical indication were 8.56, 10.49, and 14.62 mGy (CTDI<sub>vol</sub>); 319.22, 393.44, and 558.87 mGy cm (DLP<sub>t</sub>), and 12.72, 14.65, and 17.96 mGy (SSDE) for normal weight, overweight, and obesity categorisation, respectively. For prostate cancer clinical indication, the obtained values were 11.02, 13.31, and 16.67 mGy (CTDI<sub>vol</sub>); 506.50, 629.13, and 814.15 mGy cm (DLP<sub>t</sub>), and 14.89, 16.37, and 18.45 mGy (SSDE) for normal weight, overweight, and obesity categories, respectively. CTDI<sub>vol</sub> and DLP<sub>t</sub> are mostly lower for patients with a normal weight and overweight than the European DRLs published.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Dose levels of radiotherapy planning CT were established for BMI patient categorisations. This approach will contribute to personalised procedures optimisation.</p><p><strong>Implications for practice: </strong>This approach could promote the optimisation of radiotherapy planning CT and contribute to dedicated radiation protection.</p>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":" ","pages":"103180"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145276283","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-01DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103194
M. Champendal , R.T. Ribeiro , H. Müller , J.O. Prior , C. Sá dos Reis
{"title":"User-centric eXplainable AI criteria for implementing AI-based denoising in PET/CT","authors":"M. Champendal , R.T. Ribeiro , H. Müller , J.O. Prior , C. Sá dos Reis","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103194","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103194","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>The clinical adoption of AI-based denoising in PET/CT relies on the development of transparent and trustworthy tools that align with the radiographers' needs and support integration into routine practice. This study aims to determine the key characteristics of an eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI)/tool aligning the radiographers' needs to facilitate the clinical adoption of AI-based denoising algorithm in PET/CT.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Two focus groups were organised, involving ten voluntary participants recruited from nuclear medicine departments from Western-Switzerland, forming a convenience sample of radiographers. Two different scenarios, matching or mismatching the ground truth were used to identify their needs and the questions they would like to ask to understand the AI-denoising algorithm. Additionally, the characteristics that an XAI tool should possess to best meet their needs were investigated. Content analysis was performed following the three steps outlined by Wanlin. Ethics cleared the study.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Ten radiographers (aged 31-60y) identified two levels of explanation: (1) simple, global explanations with numerical confidence levels for rapid understanding in routine settings; (2) detailed, case-specific explanations using mixed formats where necessary, depending on the clinical situation and users to build confidence and support decision-making. Key questions include the functions of the algorithm (‘what’), the clinical context (‘when’) and the dependency of the results (‘how’). An effective XAI tool should be easy, adaptable, user-friendly and not disruptive to workflows.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Radiographers need two levels of explanation from XAI tools: global summaries that preserve workflow efficiency and detailed, case-specific insights when needed. Meeting these needs is key to fostering trust, understanding, and integration of AI-based denoising in PET/CT.</div></div><div><h3>Implications for practice</h3><div>Implementing adaptive XAI tools tailored to radiographers’ needs can support clinical workflows and accelerate the adoption of AI in PET/CT imaging.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"Article 103194"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145266030","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-01DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103185
M. Hanna , J. Brabin , K. Spuur , R. Keshwan , M. Chau
{"title":"A narrative review of the benefits of RIS/PACS and its integration into the radiology departments of low and middle-income countries","authors":"M. Hanna , J. Brabin , K. Spuur , R. Keshwan , M. Chau","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103185","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103185","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Radiology has been transformed by technological advancements, such as Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS). These systems have been shown to improve radiographer workflow efficiency and patient care. However, implementing RIS/PACS in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) presents unique challenges due to financial, infrastructural, and resource limitations, leading to disparities in health outcomes compared to high-income countries (HICs). This review focuses on the benefits of RIS/PACS and its impact on radiographer workflow efficiency; exploring the challenges of RIS/PACS implementation and identifying cost-effective alternatives integrated in LMIC radiology departments.</div></div><div><h3>Key findings</h3><div>Integration of RIS/PACS has demonstrated significant workflow benefits, including reduced examination steps, decreased errors, and improved productivity. However, barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, unreliable power supply, limited information technology (IT) expertise, and financial constraints hinder the successful implementation in LMICs. Potential cost-effective alternatives, such as open-source PACS solutions were successfully adopted in some LMICs.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>There are clear benefits for RIS/PACS integration, including optimising workflow and increased efficiency alongside financial benefits. However, implementation within LMIC requires overcoming substantial local challenges.</div></div><div><h3>Implications for practice</h3><div>Future research should focus on context-specific strategies to facilitate RIS/PACS adoption and explore alternative solutions tailored to the needs of LMICs, where radiology services remain underdeveloped.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"Article 103185"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145219723","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
RadiographyPub Date : 2025-10-01DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2025.103187
R.N. Dewere , O. Bwanga , B. Chinene
{"title":"Navigating triage challenges: A phenomenological study of radiographers' experiences in Zimbabwean quaternary hospitals","authors":"R.N. Dewere , O. Bwanga , B. Chinene","doi":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103187","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.radi.2025.103187","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Effective patient triage in radiology is crucial for timely diagnoses, yet many healthcare systems, particularly in resource-limited settings—struggle with implementation. Zimbabwe's quaternary hospitals face systemic barriers, including inconsistent training, equipment shortages, and workflow inefficiencies, leading to delayed care and radiographer burnout. This study aimed to explore radiographers' triage experiences in quaternary hospitals to identify context-specific challenges and inform policy improvements.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to examine radiographers' lived experiences at two quaternary hospitals. Twelve AHPCZ-registered radiographers with at least one year of experience were purposively sampled. Semi-structured interviews were conducted virtually, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological framework via NVivo 12. Trustworthiness was ensured through member checking, thick descriptions, and reflexivity.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Six themes were created: (1) Inadequate training—radiographers lacked formal triage education and ongoing updates; (2) Non-standardized protocols—leading to inconsistent prioritization; (3) Staffing shortages—high turnover and understaffing exacerbated workloads; (4) Patient conflicts—cultural and age-related biases disrupted workflows; (5) Equipment limitations—outdated machines and poor maintenance caused delays; and (6) Poor communication—incomplete referral forms hindered decision-making.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The study highlights systemic gaps in Zimbabwe's radiology triage system, emphasizing the need for structured training, standardized protocols, and improved interprofessional communication. Recommendations include integrating triage education into radiography curricula, adopting context-adapted triage frameworks, and implementing digital tools for efficiency. Culturally sensitive patient education and policy reforms for equipment maintenance are also critical.</div></div><div><h3>Implications for practice</h3><div>These findings offer a roadmap for optimizing triage in resource-constrained settings.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47416,"journal":{"name":"Radiography","volume":"31 6","pages":"Article 103187"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145220306","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}