A Study of Student Radiographers' Learning Experiences in Imaging Obese Patients

As the prevalence of obesity rises, radiographers must be capable of producing high-quality radiographs despite difficulties presented such as inadequate radiation penetration, increased scatter/poor image quality, and compromised surface anatomy palpation. Greater awareness and development of strategies are required because current scientific literature and learning resources addressing radiographic imaging of obese patients may be inadequate for student radiographers. This study investigates the confidence, perceived competence, and learning experiences of student radiographers imaging obese patients.

After ethics approval, a qualitative study in a grounded theory tradition was conducted through focus groups with second- and third-year diagnostic radiography students (31 participants over six focus groups).

Key concepts of experiential learning during placement, radiographic technique, and student confidence were identified as influential at the student-supervisor level. Key concepts of negativity toward obese patients by supervising radiographers and communication operated at the patient-student-radiographer level. Students stated difficulty applying theoretical teachings in a practical sense because of their limited experience in accounting for anatomic variations and increased adipose tissue, and their difficulty was linked to specific anatomic regions.

Students were challenged by knowledge of exposure factors and limited practical-simulated learning when imaging obese patients. Additionally, participants rated current learning resources as inadequate and preferred to be paired with a qualified radiographer for confidence and manual handling issues. Students reported negative weight bias toward obese patients by qualified/senior radiographers, and this may influence the empathy and attitudes of student radiographers.