Radiographers' Paediatric CT Radiation Dose Consideration: A Quantitative Study at Hospitals in Urban South Africa

Patients undergoing CT scans face cancer risks from ionising radiation, with paediatric patients being more vulnerable due to higher radiosensitivity. Radiographers' competency in paediatric CT radiation dosing is crucial for safety, protocol adherence, education and policy. This study explored radiographers' perspectives on their competency in urban South African hospitals.

The study employed a descriptive quantitative survey and cross-sectional design. The study setting comprised five urban hospitals in the Gauteng province, South Africa. Data were collected using a self-developed questionnaire. Data were analysed with the assistance of a statistician using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 29. The researchers used non-parametric, chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U tests to analyse the results.

Fifty radiographers (40% response rate) participated, with 30% male and 70% female. While 40% had good knowledge of paediatric CT radiation doses, 46% rated theirs as average. Adherence to protocols varied, often deferring decisions to radiologists. These findings highlight gaps in specialised training and documentation, stressing the need for better education and stricter paediatric imaging protocols.

The results of this study indicate that radiographers in Gauteng who are employed in public and private hospitals have merely average knowledge of paediatric CT radiation doses, fair radiographic practice and behaviour and good perceptions of the subject. Therefore, the study recommends enhancing training on paediatric CT imaging and enforcing strict protocol adherence to improve documentation and dose monitoring for competency.