Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026

Using Simulation Models to Train Clinicians in the Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound
Published on: August 9, 2024
GP speciality trainees' knowledge, attitude and practice regarding risks associated with common radiological
Hannah Willoughby1, Haroon Ahmed, Rebecca Jenkinson
1Postgraduate Department of Medical and Dental Education, Wales Deanery, 8th Floor Neuadd Meirionnydd Building Heath Park Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK. hannahwilloughby2002@yahoo.co.uk.
General practice trainees underestimate radiation risks from common X-rays. Most lacked radiation training, highlighting a need for better education on radiological risk communication.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Education
- Risk Communication
Background:
- Millions of radiological tests are performed annually in England.
- Risk is seldom discussed with patients undergoing radiological investigations.
- Limited evidence exists on primary care practitioners' understanding of radiological risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices of general practice specialty trainees (GPSTs) regarding risk communication for common radiological procedures.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among GPSTs in Wales.
- Participants estimated radiation doses and lifetime cancer risks of common radiological investigations.
- The study evaluated current knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to risk communication.
Main Results:
- A 32% response rate yielded 128 completed questionnaires.
- Only 28% of trainees had prior radiation training.
- Most trainees underestimated radiation doses for common procedures and believed risk explanation was the referrer's role.
Conclusions:
- GPSTs demonstrate an underestimation of risks associated with common radiological procedures.
- Educational interventions are crucial to improve risk communication, especially with expanding primary care radiology access.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray
Definition and Purpose
An X-ray, or radiograph, is a non-invasive method that uses ionizing radiation to take images of internal structures. It is mainly used in cardiac imaging to examine the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, aiming to identify abnormalities in the heart's size, shape, and position, such as heart failure, congenital defects, and vascular...
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography

