Exploring variation and trends in adherence to national occupational standards for reporting radiographers

Purpose: The primary aim of this study was to observe variations and trends in the implementation and conformity to guidelines and standards in the advanced practice role of radiographer reporting within United Kingdom (UK) National Health Service (NHS) trusts.

Method: A questionnaire using a 5-point Likert categorical response scale, and free text open questions was applied. The engagement process used on-line survey was sent out between July and August 2015 to NHS reporting radiographers. The inclusion criteria covered a cross section of imaging modalities including plain film, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine (NM), fluoroscopy, and mammography.

Results: A total of 261 radiographers completed and returned the survey. Commenting on a selection of questions based on four key themes of scope of practice (a clearly defined job description (74.3%; n=168/226). Education and training support (55%; n=125/227 had no mentor allocated), resources and equipment (48%; n=102/212 did not have access to dedicated equipment); and outcome measures of performance (36%; n=77/216 regularly audited their workload).

Conclusion: The results of the data collected, identified specific trends in the sample group on defined scope of practice, and the level of organisational support. It was implicitly implied from the varied responses on equipment and resources provided to fulfil the role, that best practice guidance on resources used to fulfil the role should have a clearly defined area in future frameworks and policy to support safe working practices. The variances of responses suggest adherence to recommended best principles in reporting were not consistent within this sample group; and acknowledged factors on the parity of support, equipment, scheduled sessions, audit mechanisms and cross-cover of service provision.