Infection prevention and control in CT Part 1: An Australian study of roles, responsibilities and practices

The computed tomography (CT) suite presents Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) risks for staff and patients. This is the first of a two-part series on IPC in the CT setting and reports on Australian baseline data related to intravenous contrast media administration and the use of power injectors in the CT suite, including knowledge sources related to the delivery of contrast media. The second part provides insights into CT staff's perceptions of high-risk scenarios for non-adherence to standard or transmission-based precautions.

The study employed an online survey design, directed at radiographers and radiology nurses working in Australia. The survey included questions relating to CT workplace staffing and equipment, contrast media use and occupational roles, and knowledge sources used for infection control and contrast injectors.

Overall, 160 study participants completed the survey (radiographers: n = 138, 86.3%; nurses: n = 22, 13.7%). Differences were identified between public and private practice. Public hospitals completed more contrast-enhanced scans, and with dual injecting systems, operated and cleaned by radiographers and nurses. Private clinics generally used single-system, power injectors. Radiographers and nurses relied heavily on their colleagues and product guidelines for IPC information. IPC teams were uncommon in private clinics, very common in public departments and 50% of respondents had undertaken IPC training in the last 12 months.

Insights into use and duties of professionals delivering intravenous contrast media administration using power injectors in the CT suite will help to inform decision-making processes on IPC education strategies and map risk.

Future research should focus on how radiology workers in CT perceive IPC risk and/or might vary from best practice, which has direct clinical implications for safety if contamination, or incorrect information is routinely applied.