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Updated: May 16, 2025
Safety Precautions and Operating Procedures in an ABSL-4 Laboratory: 4. Medical Imaging Procedures
Published on: October 3, 2016
Exploring radiographers' practice and decision-making relating to infection prevention and control in the CT
Yobelli Alexandra Jimenez1, Suzanne Hill1, Sarah Lewis2
1Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Medical Imaging Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Background:
Contrast media use is high in computed tomography (CT). This study aimed to explore radiographers' decision-making process when using contrast media injectors in the CT environment, with a focus on infection prevention and control (IPC).
Methods:
A qualitative study using observation within a think-aloud methodology in a simulated environment was undertaken. Participants performed all the steps to undertake a contrast-enhanced CT scan, while verbalizing their actions and process.
Results:
CT radiographers (n=20) participated in this study. Variations were observed across all stages of CT scanning. Gloves were used by a large proportion of participants while connecting the patient (n=16, 80%), followed by disconnecting from the patient (n=18, 90%).
Discussion:
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to map steps and explore radiographers' decision-making relating to contrast-enhanced CT procedures. Justification of practice centered around patient care and self-protection factors, using routine IPC practice and awareness of IPC risks.
Conclusions:
There was inconsistency between participants in terms of workflow and order of steps setting up a patient in CT, along with variations in IPC practices. The lack of universal guidelines specific to IPC in CT has manifested as variations in practice across CT departments.
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