Introduction Patient-centred care (PCC) is essential in radiography for polytrauma patients emphasising empathy, clear communication, and patient well-being. Polytrauma patients require tailored imaging approaches, often involving multiple modalities. Managing and handling these patients during imaging are key components of radiography training to develop the necessary competencies. This study aimed to explore the experiences of third- and fourth-year radiography students in applying PCC during the imaging of polytrauma patients. Methods A qualitative interpretive phenomenological design was employed to capture the in-depth experiences of third and fourth-year radiography students at the University of Namibia. The study utilised purposive sampling to select participants. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews, recorded and transcribed for interpretive phenomenological analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability measures. Results Twenty-one students (3 males, 18 females; 10 third-year, 11 final-year) participated. Three interpretive themes shaped the findings: Compassionate Patient Care, reflecting students' commitment to balancing technical accuracy with empathy while managing personal fears; Professional Challenges in Polytrauma Imaging, highlighting emotional trauma, technical challenges, and communication barriers as central obstacles; and Professional Transformation Through Collaboration, illustrating how teamwork and reflective practice fostered growth, confidence, and resilience. The findings highlight the human and transformative nature of students’ experiences in imaging polytrauma patients. Conclusions This study highlights radiography students’ experiences imaging polytrauma patients, emphasizing compassionate care, professional challenges, and collaborative growth. The interplay between technical skills, emotional resilience, and relational competence underscores the need for curricula that address patient-centred care, adaptive problem-solving, and emotional resilience to prepare students for clinical challenges. Implications for practice Radiography curricula should incorporate emotional resilience training, patient-centred care principles, and adaptive problem-solving to enhance students' preparedness for real-world clinical challenges.

Introduction: Medical imaging's critical role in diagnosis requires prompt and precise image interpretation. Numerous radiology departments, especially in low-resourced settings, encounter challenges such as a shortage of radiologists in their operational setup. This study explored the perceptions of radiographers and radiologists from low-resourced departments in a single country regarding operational challenges and potential solutions in image interpretation. Methods: A qualitative approach was utilised, involving heads of departments, senior radiographers, and radiologists with a minimum of 5 years of experience, from three major state referral hospitals. Face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted in November 2022, using an interview guide that included questions on the challenges encountered during image interpretation and the proposed solutions. Data analysis was conducted using Atlas.ti version 9.0, following the four-step content analysis method. All participants willingly provided consent to participate in the study. Results: Ten participants, comprising two radiologists and eight radiographers participated in the study. The research identified three main themes: image interpretation pathways, image interpretation operational challenges and proposed solutions for image interpretation. In addition, a total of 10 subthemes were generated from the three main themes. Conclusion: The study revealed critical challenges and the need to explore the formal inclusion of radiographers in image interpretation, as a way to improve efficiency. However, a comprehensive assessment of the image interpretation system, encompassing radiographers' knowledge and competence, is recommended for context-specific, empirical-based modifications to enhance service provision.

IntroductionClinical training is crucial for diagnostic radiography students, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical skills. In resource-constrained settings, this training may face unique challenges that might significantly impact learning outcomes and future practice. Despite its importance, the experiences of diagnostic radiography students during clinical placements remain understudied, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of diagnostic radiography students during clinical training at two resource-constrained Sub-Saharan public hospitals.MethodsA qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with 18 diagnostic radiography students (six each from years 2 to 4) from one participating university. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through prolonged engagement, member checking, and researchers' reflexivity. Ethical approval was obtained before data collection commenced.ResultsThree main themes were generated: (1) Clinical Environment Challenges, including equipment shortages and understaffing; (2) Independent Learning and Development, highlighting students' resilience and self-directed learning; and (3) Patient Care Impact, demonstrating students' commitment to quality care despite constraints. Students reported increased confidence and adaptability but also noted negative interactions with healthcare workers and supervision inconsistencies.ConclusionsDespite significant challenges, diagnostic radiography students demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment to patient care. However, resource limitations and interprofessional issues pose substantial barriers to optimal learning experiences. These findings highlighted the need for targeted interventions in diagnostic radiography education within resource-constrained settings, including increased investment in equipment and staffing, enhanced interprofessional education, improved supervision models and curriculum enhancements fostering self-directed learning and resilience.

Background: Clear communication during informed consent is crucial in paediatric computed tomography (CT) procedures, particularly in resource-constrained settings. CT offers valuable diagnostic information but carries potential radiation risks, especially for paediatric patients. Parents play a critical role in decision-making, necessitating thorough risk-benefit discussions. This study aimed to explore parental experiences regarding risk-benefit communication during their children's CT scans in under-resourced healthcare facilities. Methods: A qualitative approach with a descriptive design was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 purposefully selected and consenting parents accompanying paediatric patients for CT scans at two public hospitals. Data were analysed using Tesch's eight-step method and ATLAS.ti software. Results: Participants were parents of children aged 0-10 years (8 males, 5 females), with 11 making their first visit to the CT department. Three main themes emerged: (1) Compromised consenting process, characterised by inadequate explanation of consent and limited risk-benefit communication; (2) Procedural information deficiency, including minimal communication about the procedure and lack of information on examination results; and (3) Preference for improved communication, with parents expressing a desire for comprehensive information and varied opinions on who should disseminate this information. Parents reported feeling uninformed, anxious, and unable to make well-informed decisions due to communication gaps. Conclusions: Significant improvements are needed in risk-benefit communication during paediatric CT scans. Healthcare providers should use simplified language, visual aids, and patient-centred discussions to enhance understanding and reduce parental anxiety. Radiographers should allocate sufficient time for discussions, involve referring physicians when necessary, and document the informed consent process thoroughly. Addressing these issues can improve patient experiences and contribute to positive health outcomes in resource- constrained settings.

INTRODUCTION:Medical doctors can encounter significant challenges in both the radiology image interpretation service and their ability to interpret images to promote effective patient management. This study aimed to explore the experiences of medical doctors in a low-resource setting regarding the image interpretation service received in state-funded hospitals and the potential role of radiographers. METHODS:A qualitative approach with a descriptive phenomenology design was employed. Thirteen medical officers and medical interns, with a maximum of three years of experience, were purposively selected from three state-funded hospitals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in English, and data analysis followed the conventional content analysis method using Atlas.ti for Windows (version 9). RESULTS:Three main themes emerged from the data. The first theme was a poor image interpretation service which highlighted issues such as long turnaround times for image reporting and compromised patient management. The second theme was training and support deficiency which revealed the inadequacy of image interpretation training and the need for additional on-the-job support. The third theme was the inconspicuous radiographer role which showcased the potential opportunities for radiographers to aid in filling the gaps in the image interpretation system. CONCLUSION:Medical doctors in this low-resource setting experience significant delays in radiology image interpretation, leading to compromised patient management. Their training in image interpretation is inadequate, and they often lack on-the-job support. Radiographers potentially play a role in image interpretation which may provide solutions to these contextual challenges. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:There is a need to review and develop a comprehensive image interpretation system that effectively supports medical doctors in image interpretation, possibly involving the collaboration of radiographers.

IntroductionThe global shortage of radiologists has led to a growing concern in medical imaging, prompting the exploration of strategies, such as including radiographers in image interpretation, to mitigate this challenge. However, in low-resource settings, progress in adopting similar approaches has been limited. This study aimed to explore radiographers' perceptions regarding the impact of their potential role in image interpretation within a low-resource setting.MethodsThe study used a qualitative descriptive design and was conducted at two public referral hospitals. Radiographers with at least one year of experience were purposively sampled and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide after consenting. Data saturation determined the sample size, and content analysis was applied for data analysis.ResultsTwo themes emerged from fourteen interviews conducted with two male and twelve female radiographers. Theme one revealed the potential for enhanced healthcare delivery through improved diagnostic support, bridging radiologist shortages, career development and fulfilment as positive outcomes of role extension. Theme two revealed possible implementation hurdles including radiographer resistance and reluctance, limited training, lack of professional trust, and legal and ethical challenges.ConclusionRadiographers perceived their potential participation positively, envisioning enhanced healthcare delivery, however, possible challenges like resistance and reluctance of radiographers, limited training, and legal/ethical issues pose hurdles. Addressing these challenges through tailored interventions, including formal education could facilitate successful implementation. Further studies are recommended to explore radiographers' competencies, providing empirical evidence for sustaining and expanding this role extension.Implication for practiceThe study further supports the integration of radiographers into image interpretation with the potential to enhance healthcare delivery, however, implementation challenges in low-resource settings require careful consideration.

Background Radiographers’ role as healthcare workers places them at constant risk for hospital-acquired infections. Practical, evidence-based methods are necessary to reduce the transmission of pathogens to and from patients and healthcare workers. Objective The main objectives of this study were to determine knowledge, attitude, and practice levels regarding infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies among radiographers in Windhoek and Oshakati, and measure their relationships with other variables. Method A quantitative descriptive design was employed. To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice levels among radiographers, a self-administered questionnaire was used. Twenty-seven radiographers took part in the study, producing a 68% response rate. Results The study revealed that the majority of the radiographers showed an appropriate level of overall knowledge and attitude toward infection prevention and control. However, the majority of their practice levels were poor. Pearson rank correlation test revealed that the radiographers’ knowledge was significantly associated with attitudes (P= 0.004; r=0.53) and practices (P=0.03; r=- 0.41) with a moderate positive and negative correlation, respectively. Conclusions In conclusion, the study revealed that radiographers are knowledgeable about IPC strategies, and have good attitudes toward them. However, their practice was poor and inconsistent with the level of knowledge demonstrated. Therefore, it is recommended that healthcare service managers establish efficient and rigorous means of monitoring adherence to IPC strategies and improving practices to reduce incidences of health-acquired infections among radiographers, especially in the age of a pandemic.

INTRODUCTION:Reflective journaling is a widely recognised method of engaging in reflective practice, whereby individuals document their critical analysis of past experiences or actions, focusing on the implications and lessons learned for future application. In radiography and other healthcare professions, reflective practice is considered essential for professional development and should be cultivated during training. This study aimed to explore the experiences of senior radiography students in utilising the reflective journal as a clinical learning tool. METHODS:This study employed a phenomenological research design, with the study participants being third and fourth-year radiography students. Data collection took place after the introduction of reflective journaling, with nineteen participants having utilised the reflective journal daily, for a minimum of eight months. Individual interviews were conducted after obtaining the participants' consent. The collected data were analysed using Atlas. ti (version 9.3), guided by the content analysis framework. RESULTS:The study revealed that participants experienced adaptation, characterised by reflective adaptation and process adaptation when utilising the reflective journal. Participants also encountered reflective barriers, including personal expression bias, inconsistent feedback, rumination overload, and impulsive practice dominance. CONCLUSION:The findings demonstrate the benefits of reflective journaling in promoting critical thinking and reflective practice among radiography students. It is therefore recommended that this practice be fully embraced as a standard clinical component. Additionally, the frequency of reflections should be reviewed to ensure effectiveness and consistent feedback should be provided to enhance skills development. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:The findings contribute further evidence to support the incorporation of reflective journaling in clinical training to promote critical thinking and reflective practice.

Introduction: Radiographers extend their roles through formal and on-the-job training to keep up with clinical practice changes. One area of role extension that is now incorporated into undergraduate programmes is image interpretation, although the training provided may vary between institutions. This study explored the experiences of graduates from one higher education institution in a low-resource context with regard to their image interpretation training.Methods: A qualitative phenomenological research design was employed to investigate the experiences of ten radiography graduates who were purposively selected from one higher education institution. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant after obtaining their informed consent. The interview recordings were transcribed and analysed using Atlas.ti Windows (Version 9.0) software, following Colaizzi's seven-steps of data analysis.Results: From the ten interviews conducted, teaching approach, clinical education, and assessment strategy emerged as areas of experience within the teaching and learning theme, while practitioner role modelling, skill utilisation, and industry impact were sub-themes under the paradoxical reality theme. The participants' experiences indicated a theory-practice gap in image interpretation among radiographers.Conclusion: The participants' experiences reflected a misalignment in the educational process due to inadequacies in the teaching approach, clinical education, and assessment strategies. Participants encountered significant differences between their expectations and clinical realities during and after training. Image interpretation by radiographers was recognised as a relevant area for role extension in this low-resource setting. Implications for practice: While these findings are specific to the experiences of the participants, conducting similar research in comparable contexts and implementing competency-based image interpretation assessments could help identify gaps and guide interventions to address shortcomings.(c) 2023 The College of Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

INTRODUCTION:Recently qualified health workers including radiographers struggle with workplace integration. Similarly, in our local context, undocumented complaints were received from the various heads of departments and radiologists regarding recently qualified radiographers' ability to fully assume their professional roles. In light of the complaints, this study sought to explore and describe the lived experiences of recently qualified radiographers from one local University on their readiness to assume their professional roles.METHODS:A qualitative, descriptive research design with a phenomenological approach was used to conduct the study. Ten (10) diagnostic radiographers who graduated between 2018 and 2020 from the local university were sampled using the snowball sampling technique. Telephonic interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analysed using Tesch's open coding method.RESULTS:The findings of this study have shown a combination of positive and negative experiences by recently qualified radiographers. The positive experiences (satisfactory work engagement) emanate from increased confidence and creativity, responsibility consciousness and teamwork. Negative experiences (reality shock and professional role conflict) emanated from excessive workload, patient care impediments, the burden of student supervision and lack of professional trust.CONCLUSION:Though the recently qualified radiographers from our local University experienced some contextual challenges upon assuming their professional roles, they appeared well-prepared for their clinical roles. Standardised induction and mentorship programmes should be implemented to facilitate the transition process from student to qualified radiographer.

Background: Justification is a process conducted by the radiogra-pher in consultation with the radiologist to evaluate radiological pro-cedures ordered by doctors. The main purpose for justifying all radi-ologic procedures is to assess the benefits and risks of a requested ra-diographic procedure and determine whether exposure will continue. Furthermore, justification helps to prevent unnecessary radiation ex-posure and reduce the chances of harmful effects of ionizing radiation.Objectives: The study aimed to explore the experiences of radiog-raphers regarding the justification of radiological procedures at two public hospitals in NamibiaMethods: This study made use of a qualitative, exploratory design. A total number of 13 purposefully selected radiographers from ra-diology departments in two tertiary public -hospitals in Namibia were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide and audio recorder. All interviews were conducted face-to-face until data satura-tion was achieved. Data were analysed using Atlas.ti Windows (version 9.0 using Tesch's 8-step method of qualitative data analysis to generate themes and subthemes.Findings: The participants experienced an enhancement of patient care through enhanced radiation protection and optimised patient care. They also experienced defunct communication systems through deficient communication between radiographers and referrers, profes-sional role conflict and incomplete referrals.Conclusion: The study revealed that the justification of radiological procedures was linked to both negative and positive experiences. En-hanced patient-centred care was a positive experience related to the ra-diographers' job responsibilities. The defunct communication support system was a negative experience as it related to the limited availability and utilisation of communication systems that are meant to enhance and support justification by radiographers. The study recommends an in-depth study to quantify unjustified procedures in these two hospital departments. Continuous professional development focusing on jus-tification and referral protocols must be conducted jointly between ra-diographers and referrers to create awareness and a platform for shared decision-making models.

INTRODUCTION:Role extension to include intravenous (IV) injection of contrast media has been formally embraced by radiographers and their regulatory bodies in developed countries. The revised scope of practice, in our Namibian context, has formalised IV injection as an extended role for radiographers. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of radiographers regarding this new role of IV injection of contrast media. METHODS:A qualitative design with a descriptive phenomenological approach was employed to collect data from 15 radiographers working in both public and private radiology facilities. Participants were purposively selected to participate in focus group discussions and individual interviews. An interview guide was used to facilitate the discussions and interviews, and a voice recorder was used for recording. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Tesch's 8-step method. RESULTS:From the 15 participants, three themes were developed: enhanced service delivery with two subthemes (improved departmental workflow and patient care), training needs with two subthemes (inadequate contrast media reaction training and standardised training requirement), and medical-legal issues with two subthemes (regulatory blurriness and role conflict distress). CONCLUSION:The participants expressed mixed perceptions towards the IV injection role of radiographers, emphasising the benefits for the department and patients while raising concerns regarding standardisation of training and associated medico-legal issues. Furthermore, a large-scale evaluation is necessary to uncover the challenges and barriers to the successful adoption of this new role. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:The role extension for radiographers to include IV injections is a long-awaited development, but it should be accompanied by the necessary training and guidelines to fully realise its benefits.

Background. All newborn infants are required to undergo the Apgar score/assessment immediately after birth and again at five minutes. This vital examination is performed to determine how well the infant is adjusting to the birthing process and the outside environment. Some newborns may have a normal Apgar score, while others may have a low score. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with low Apgar scores among newborns at an intermediate hospital in Northern Namibia.Objective. To identify maternal factors associated with an immediate low Apgar score in newborns at an intermediate hospital in Northern Namibia and to examine the association between maternal factors and an immediate low Apgar score. Quantitative, retrospective, descriptive research methodology was employed. A document review checklist was utilized to collect data at Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital between August 2020 and October 2020.Results. Gravidity (p0.021), parity (p0.029), haemoglobin after the first ante-natal care visit (p0.011), antepartum haemorrhage (APH) (p0.004), membrane status (p0.000), duration of labour (p0.000), type of delivery (p0.000), and caesarean section type and indication (p0.000) were found to be associated with an immediate low Apgar score.Conclusions: The study identified maternal factors that influence an infant’s initial low Apgar score. Strengthen maternal health education regarding gravidity and parity, diet, and recognizing danger signs during pregnancy. In addition, strict monitoring of patients with a partograph, cardiotocography, accurate record keeping, and prompt referral of patients with risk factors is strongly advised.

Introduction: job satisfaction is an integral component of professional relationships, affecting human resource retention and organisational productivity. The study evaluated the job satisfaction levels and their contributing factors as well as turnover intention among radiographers working at three state hospitals.

Patient care has been the major focus of most healthcare discussions, as a way to reinforce strategies that ensure care is of benefit to patients. Understanding the interactions between the patient and radiographer unlocks various opportunities to deliver improved patient care. The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of care received by patients and determine its contributing factors as perceived by patients during the general X-ray examinations. The study used a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 66 purposefully sampled participants, using a questionnaire. The quality of care for different phases of the radiographic procedures was analysed and the relationships between dependent and independent variables, as well as identified contributing factors, were measured using SPSS version 25. The quality of care rendered to patients in the radiography department before the commencement of the procedure, during the procedure and after the procedure was rated as good, by 77.3%, 81.8% and 68.2%, of the patients respectively. The overall quality of care received by the patients was rated as high, by 89.4% of the patients. Poor communication, overcrowded rooms, radiographers and receptionists´ attitudes were factors highlighted by patients as affecting the quality of care they received. Most patients rated highly the quality of care rendered during radiographic procedures, with a few areas reported as negatively affecting this care. Continuous professional development on communication and patient-centred care for radiographers is recommended to improve and maintain the quality of care rendered to patients.

Background: Nutrition-related non-communicable diseases contribute to approximately half of the premature deaths in Namibia. Westernisation and urbanisation of communities have resulted in changing dietary patterns that see people eating more refined and high sugar content foods that are a risk for nutrition-related non-communicable diseases. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxation has been found to influence consumer purchasing behaviour and to raise revenue for health-promoting activity in other low- and middle-income countries. Objectives: To analyse Namibia’s non-communicable diseases prevention policy landscape and assess the readiness of the Government to adopt sugar-sweetened beverage taxation policies for public health. Methods: Government policy documents relating to nutrition-related non-communicable diseases were analysed, utilising predetermined variables based on policy theory. Thirteen key informant interviews were conducted with stakeholders from Government, non-governmental organisations and academic institutions. Data sets were analysed utilising Kingdon’s analytical theory for agenda setting. Results: Nutrition-related non-communicable diseases are an increasing problem that requires immediate action. Diet and lifestyle are recognised as major contributors to non-communicable diseases. The Government has adopted a multisectoral approach to the control and prevention of non-communicable diseases in Namibia. A sugar-sweetened beverage tax is envisaged in policy, but there is no progress towards its enactment. At the highest level of Government, the Ministry of Finance has ruled out immediate action towards sugar-sweetened beverage taxation. There is little publicly available information about the Namibian beverages industry, but it is closely tied to the South African drinking industry and is influenced by policy action in that country. Conclusion: The Government of Namibia has taken positive steps and the policy environment is friendly towards an SSB tax. The proximity of trade and the competitive nature of the Namibian drinks industry with South Africa suggest that a regional perspective to advocacy would be of value.

Introduction. Radiographers, like other health professionals, are mandated by their scope of practice to behave in a professional and ethical manner. Technological advances in the profession have led to the modernisation of the radiography profession. However, concerns have been raised in the health sciences’ professions regarding unprofessional, unethical and unlawful behaviour of professionals. To gain public trust, radiographers should commit themselves to the standards of the profession. Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the level of professionalism of student radiographers enrolled for the Bachelor of Radiography (Diagnostic) (BRad: D) degree programme at the University of Namibia (UNAM). Methodology. A quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach was used. Data were collected from a conveniently selected sample of students enrolled for the BRad: D degree programme at the UNAM (n=55) who completed a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using the statistical software programme (SPSS) (version 24). Results. Participants reported varied levels of professionalism. Results indicated that the majority of the participants showed good accountability (n=47; 87%), compassion (n=46; 83.6%), excellence (n=39; 70.9%) and integrity (n=44; 80%). No significant association was found between the level of professionalism and the different years of study, how the participants perceived clinical practice and the workload, and how satisfied the participants were with the clinical setting and clinical supervision they received. Overall, it was found that the participants displayed average to good levels of professionalism. Conclusion. Student radiographers work under supervision of radiographers; therefore, it is essential that their professional behaviour is aligned with the professional standards prescribed by the regulatory bodies. Educators should continually reinforce professional values, especially altruism and professional duty, among students during theoretical and clinical training. This will ensure that upon graduation, student radiographers can smoothly transition into professional radiographers who should demonstrate the level of professionalism consistent with the profession.

Background: A number of countries have adopted sugar-sweetened beverage taxes to prevent non-communicable diseases but there is variance in the structures and rates of the taxes. As interventions, sugar-sweetened beverage taxes could be cost-effective but must be compliant with existing legal and taxation systems.Objectives: To assess the legal feasibility of introducing or strengthening taxation laws related to sugar-sweetened beverages, for prevention of non-communicable diseases in seven countries: Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.Methods: We assessed the legal feasibility of adopting four types of sugar-sweetened beverage tax formulations in each of the seven countries, using the novel FELIP framework. We conducted a desk-based review of the legal system related to sugar-sweetened beverage taxation and assessed the barriers to, and facilitators and legal feasibility of, introducing each of the selected formulations by considering the existing laws, laws related to impacted sectors, legal infrastructure, and processes involved in adopting laws.Results: Six countries had legal mandates to prevent non-communicable diseases and protect the health of citizens. As of 2019, all countries had excise tax legislation. Five countries levied excise taxes on all soft drinks, but most did not exclusively target sugar-sweetened beverages, and taxation rates were well below the World Health Organization's recommended 20%. In Uganda and Kenya, agricultural or HIV-related levies offered alternative mechanisms to disincentivise consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages without the introduction of new taxes. Nutrition-labelling laws in all countries made it feasible to adopt taxes linked to the sugar content of beverages, but there were lacunas in existing infrastructure for more sophisticated taxation structures.Conclusion: Sugar-sweetened beverage taxes are legally feasible in all seven countries Existing laws provide a means to implement taxes as a public health intervention.