Strategies to Improve Radiographic Practices for Patients With Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review

Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients are one of the highest health care service users globally. In the context of radiography, there are many AD patients who undergo imaging procedures for common age-related conditions. However, there is currently no literature on how radiographers can effectively manage such patients in imaging situations.

This review examined the literature regarding the interaction between Alzheimer's patients and other health care professionals (eg, nurses) and the strategies that have been used to improve patient compliance and accommodate functional decline.

Many strategies relating to care of patients with AD are long term, and cannot be applied in a radiographic setting, where patients may only present once. Transferrable strategies for a radiographic setting include the support of carers during the examination process, a reduction in noise and use of calming music, and allowing the patient to personalize the examination room by bringing a photograph or an item of comfort.

These simple strategies can reduce the level of anxiety experienced by AD patients, reduce typical behavioral symptoms of agitation, aggression and discomfort, and increase patient cooperation and responsiveness.