Intrapersonal and Institutional Influences On Overall Perception of Radiation Safety Among Radiologic Technologists

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging and Radiation Protection
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Socioecological Models in Healthcare

Background:

• Radiation safety culture is crucial in medical imaging, influenced by various intrapersonal and institutional factors.
• Previous research identified leadership, teamwork, and organizational learning as key drivers of overall perception of radiation safety (OPRS).
• The socioecological model provides a framework for understanding the complex influences on radiation safety decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine differences in OPRS among U.S. radiologic technologists based on intrapersonal and institutional variables.
• To assess the applicability of the socioecological model in understanding radiation safety decision-making.
• To identify specific factors influencing OPRS in radiologic technologists.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted using the Radiation Actions and Dimensions of Radiation Safety survey.
• Data were collected from 425 radiologic technologists across various imaging modalities and roles.
• One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to test hypotheses regarding mean differences in OPRS.

Main Results:

• Significant mean differences in OPRS were found based on age, years of experience, primary imaging modality, primary role, shift length, practice facility, and work shift.
• Shift length demonstrated the largest effect on OPRS.
• Education, employment status, number of credentials, gender, patient population, and practice location did not significantly impact OPRS.

Conclusions:

• The socioecological model is applicable to understanding radiation safety perception in medical imaging.
• Factors such as scheduling practices and employed imaging modality significantly influence OPRS.
• Findings support evidence-based decision-making for improving radiation safety culture, particularly concerning shift length.