Medical Imaging Graduates' Knowledge About Infection Prevention and Control in Pharmaceutical Administration...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiography
• Nuclear Medicine Technology

Background:

• Pharmaceutical administration in radiographic and nuclear medicine (NM) examinations, including contrast media (CM) and radiopharmaceuticals, is vital for disease diagnosis.
• Inadequate infection prevention and control (IPC) during these procedures can elevate infection risks for patients and healthcare workers.
• This study examines IPC knowledge and educational preparedness among radiographers and NM technologists concerning pharmaceutical administration in medical imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current level of infection prevention and control (IPC) knowledge among newly graduated radiographers and NM technologists in Australia.
• To assess the perceived effectiveness of existing IPC training resources related to pharmaceutical administration in medical imaging.
• To identify gaps between academic training and workplace practices in IPC for medical imaging professionals.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online questionnaire was distributed to recently graduated radiographers and NM technologists in Australia.
• The survey collected data on participant demographics, IPC knowledge, and the perceived utility of IPC training.
• Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, ANOVA, and content analysis.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated high theoretical IPC knowledge, with 87% scoring 9 or above.
• Theoretical university training was identified as the most valuable IPC resource.
• Key challenges identified were limited practical training opportunities, inconsistent supervision, and environmental factors impacting IPC compliance, highlighting a gap between education and practice.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in IPC training for medical imaging professionals, particularly regarding contrast media (CM) handling in CT imaging.
• There is a critical need to enhance IPC education with targeted, hands-on training and regular refresher courses.
• Improving educational preparedness is essential for mitigating infection transmission risks and ensuring patient and healthcare worker safety in medical imaging settings.