BACKGROUND:Dementia and cognitive impairment are prevalent among older adults and present significant challenges during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations, particularly regarding compliance, communication, and procedural adaptations. Despite MRI's central role in diagnosing neurodegenerative disorders, limited research has examined radiographers' experiences with this vulnerable patient group. OBJECTIVE:To quantitatively investigate radiographers' interactions with patients exhibiting dementia or cognitive impairment during MRI examinations, focusing on procedural barriers, adaptations, and implications for patient care. METHODS:A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the MRI department of a tertiary public hospital in Ireland. Eight state-registered MRI radiographers completed structured questionnaires (n = 20 patient encounters) immediately following examinations of patients with documented or observed cognitive impairment or dementia. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations were used to analyze procedural outcomes, communication effectiveness, and modifications implemented. RESULTS:Patients had a mean age of 77 years (range 65-89). Cognitive status was undocumented on referral in 85% of cases and most often identified via ward communication (50%). Only 25% of patients fully comprehended instructions, with 75% unable to cooperate. Procedural modifications were required in 30% of cases, primarily reduced scan duration and motion correction. Examination disruptions included incompleteness (25%) and abortion (15%). Patient distress was observed before (10%), during (30%), and after (15%) scanning. Radiographers employed strategies such as increased communication and interaction, though no carers were present during scans. CONCLUSION:Radiographers face substantial challenges in managing MRI examinations for patients with dementia or cognitive impairment, including poor referral documentation, communication barriers, and frequent procedural disruptions. Findings highlight the need for dementia-friendly protocols, environmental adaptations, carer involvement, and targeted radiographer training to optimize diagnostic quality and patient-centered care.

Background: Despite significant advancements in healthcare in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), limited research has explored the motivational factors influencing UAE radiography students’ choice of this field. Materials and Methods: Institutional using a cross-sectional survey, to explore motivational factors influencing career decisions among UAE radiography students. It was conducted in 2023 and involved 100 students from four universities across the UAE. Nonprobability sampling, including convenience and snowball methods, was used. Data were collected through an online questionnaire validated through expert reviews and pilot testing. The analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS software to assess demographic characteristics and career motivation factors. Results: The findings of this study demonstrate that the primary reason for choosing diagnostic radiography as a profession was primarily due to their interest in medical imaging technology (47%). Additional motivations included job availability (18%), personal interest, and high-income potential (14%). Most participants (40%) expressed satisfaction with their career choice and an interest in further education. Further training in ultrasound or nuclear medicine was desired by 17%, and both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) by 23%. Conclusion: The appeal of diagnostic radiography arises from a combination of interest in advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and CT, alongside promising career prospects and opportunities for specialization. Targeted early career guidance and well-structured educational and policy interventions are essential to attract and retain skilled professionals. These measures are critical for sustaining the UAE’s healthcare sector’s growth and provide a replicable model for advancing diagnostic radiography in other regions.

Introduction Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) performs a critical role in breast cancer diagnosis, especially for high-risk populations e.g. family history. MRI could take advantage of the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). AI assessment of breast composition factors is less studied than those of lesion detection and classification. These factors are breast density, background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) and fibroglandular tissue (FGT), which are recognized breast cancer phenotypes. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, the PROSPERO registered review examined the role of AI in assessing breast composition in MRI. A search of articles from Pubmed, Ovid, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google scholar from 2010 to 2022 was conducted. Peer-reviewed, in-vivo studies were included based on defined search categories. Adapted QUADAS-2, CASP and Covidence tools were utilized for quality assessment. Results Seven studies were identified as being of sufficiently high quality. The studies showed that AI has the potential to provide a comparable level of accuracy against the relevant reference standard. There were limited performance results when delineating BPE and FGT BI-RADs categories. The review highlighted the variability in AI models while the range of statistical methods and small cohort sizes limited cross study compatibility. Conclusions AI has potential in assessing breast composition in MRI. However, variability in AI systems deployed and statistical measurements alongside limited validation across diverse populations remain an issue. AI systems may perform better with binary categorizations rather than the quaternary spectrum of BI-RADS. Implications for practice AI could assist in developing personalized breast composition assessments. Future developments could focus on better delineation of breast composition categories. AI models that have trained on more diverse and larger populations should result in more robust and effective clinical applications.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a prevalent autosomal recessive disorder, with lung complications being the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. In paediatric patients, structural lung changes begin early, necessitating prompt detection to guide treatment and delay disease progression. This study evaluates ultra-low-dose CT (ULDCT) versus chest x-rays (CXR) for children with CF (CwCF) lung disease assessment. ULDCT uses AI-enhanced deep-learning iterative reconstruction to achieve radiation doses comparable to a CXR. This prospective study recruited radiographers and radiologists to assess the image quality (IQ) of ten paired ULDCT and CXR images of CwCF from a single centre. Statistical analyses, including the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test and visual grading characteristic (VGC) analysis, compared diagnostic confidence and anatomical detail. Seventy-five participants were enrolled, 25 radiologists and 50 radiographers. The majority (88

Abstract Objectives Radiographers use advanced medical imaging and radiotherapy (MIRT) equipment. They are also a digitally mature and digitally resilient workforce in healthcare. Artificial intelligence is already changing their clinical practice and roles in data acquisition, post-processing, and workflow management. It is therefore vital to understand the impact of AI on the careers, roles and professional identity of radiographers, as key stakeholders of the digital transformation of healthcare within the medical imaging ecosystem. Methods A European radiographer survey, endorsed by the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS), was distributed online. It was piloted with twelve radiographers and translated into eight languages. Although this study included both qualitative and quantitative results, this paper emphasises the quantitative aspect. Results A total of 2206 European radiographers have responded from 37 different countries. Despite some concerns around workforce deskilling, future professional identity, and job prospects, participants showed overall optimistic views about the use of AI in healthcare. This was particularly strong for those with prior AI education (mean: 2.15 vs. 1.89; p-value: < 0.001), hands-on experience with AI (correlation: 0.047; p-value: 0.038), from countries with higher digital literacy (mean: 2.00 vs.1.93; p-value: 0.027) and a higher academic level of radiography education (mean: 3.28 vs. 3.15; p-value: 0.002). Men appeared slightly more enthused about the development of technological skills and women about the honing of patient-centred care skills. Finally, interprofessional collaboration was seen as essential not only for the seamless clinical integration of AI but also for supporting patient benefit. Conclusion While AI implementation advances, AI education needs to keep at pace to ensure acceptability, trust, and safe use of this technology by healthcare professionals, minimising their concerns around professional role changes and enabling them to see the opportunities of service transformation. Critical relevance statement This paper aims to map out the perceived impact of AI on the professional identity and careers of European radiographers. Key Points AI is impacting radiographers’ clinical practice and changing their professional identity. Despite increasing AI awareness, AI education is still lacking across Europe. AI education is key for AI acceptability and trust by radiographers, which facilitates AI implementation and service transformation. Graphical Abstract

INTRODUCTION:Ultra-low dose CT (ULDCT) of the whole-body is a promising technique to replace radiography for the diagnosis of suspected physical abuse (SPA). This study aims to compare the image quality and radiation dose of ULDCT to standard dose CT (STDCT) in cases of SPA. METHODS:In this phantom-based study, two sets of newborn, whole-body, anthropomorphic phantom images were acquired using STDCT and ULDCT protocols on a GE Revolution Apex scanner with Deep Learning Iterative Reconstruction (DLIR). The effective dose (ED) of both protocols was calculated using Monte Carlo simulation. Observers then assessed image quality (IQ) at an international radiology congress. The evaluation captured data on demographics, visualisation of the bony anatomy of all body parts with STDCT and ULDCT, and confidence in diagnosis using either protocol. Visual grading analysis (VGA) was used on an absolute scale for IQ rating and comparison. RESULTS:Forty-six observers were included in this study, 38-radiographers and eight-radiologists. The percentage ED difference between protocols was 93.5% (STDCT=0.56mSv vs ULDCT=0.04mSv) and 97.8% of the observers underestimated the dose reduction when questioned. For the bony anatomy of all body parts, STDCT showed significantly higher IQ than ULDCT (AUCVGA=0.75, asymmetric 95% CI 0.69-0.8). CONCLUSION:This study demonstrated that 41% of observers were confident using ULDCT protocol for SPA diagnosis and that ULDCT is a promising technique which may compete with projection radiography. Further work is needed to improve the ULDCT protocol and increase confidence while maintaining an ultra-low dose. ULDCT should be considered as a potential addition to radiographic skeletal survey (SS) in the investigation of SPA. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:ULDCT provides substantially lower radiation dose with acceptable image quality in a phantom model. While not directly compared with radiographic SS, ULDCT shows potential as a complementary tool for SPA imaging, and further protocol optimisation and evaluation are required before clinical implementation.

Introduction Clinical practice is a critical component of radiography curricula, offering students with essential skills and training for proficient practice. Educational institutions are challenged to review and develop strategies to meet evolving service demands regularly. This study aims to gain insight into the inclusion of cross-sectional imaging within pre-registration radiography training. Methods An online questionnaire, based on previous European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS) surveys, included closed-ended questions and ascertained the level of qualification, cross-sectional imaging incorporation, and tasks and assessments within programmes. The questionnaire was distributed through the EFRS Research Hub at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) 2023 and online via social media. Closed-ended questions were summarised using descriptive statistics. Results Responses were received from 64 individual radiography educators across 29 different countries. Fifty-seven respondents (91.9 %) reported including cross-sectional imaging training in their institution's pre-registration radiography programme. An increase in the amount of time dedicated to clinical training in cross-sectional imaging was reported by 24 respondents (42.1 %). Overall, 32 individuals (53.3 %) stated that CT is a specialised modality, and dedicated training should be for radiographers once they obtain their basic qualifications. In contrast, 36 respondents (61 %) agreed that MRI should also be reserved as a specialised modality. Conclusion Study findings indicate a lack of consistency among pre-registration radiography programmes in terms of how they include cross-sectional imaging in their curricula. Differing opinions on this issue are likely to be guided by national standards and workforce requirements upon qualification. Implications for practice Variations in training curricula can present significant challenges for graduates. To align with the most recent Standards of Proficiency, curricula must be regularly reviewed and updated. Such Standards now typically require radiographers to perform a range of CT scans, including those of the head, C-spine, chest, and abdomen. Therefore, integrating comprehensive training in cross-sectional imaging into pre-registration education is crucial to ensure that future professionals meet these essential competencies and are fully prepared for their roles.

IntroductionTo reduce the risks involved with ionising radiation exposure, typical values (TVs) and diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) have been established to help keep radiation doses ‘as low as reasonably practicable. TVs/DRLs provide standardised radiation dose metrics that can be used for comparative purposes. However, for paediatrics, such values should consider the size of the child instead of their age. This study aimed to establish and compare paediatric TVs for chest, abdomen and pelvis radiography.MethodsStudy methods followed processes for establishing paediatric DRLs as outlined by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA). Kerma-area product (KAP) values, excluding rejected images, were retrospectively acquired from the study institution's Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS). Paediatric patients were categorised into the following weight-based groupings (5 to <15 kg, 15 to <30 kg, 30 to <50 kg, 50 to 80 kg) and stratified based on the examination that was performed (chest, abdomen, and pelvis), and where it was performed (the different X-ray rooms). Anonymised data were inputted into Microsoft Excel for analysis. Median and 3rd quartile KAP values were reported together with graphical illustrations.ResultsData from 407 X-ray examinations were analysed. For the previously identified weight categories (5 to <15 kg, 15 to <30 kg, 30 to <50 kg, 50 to 80 kg), TVs for the chest were 0.10, 0.19, 0.37 and 0.53 dGy.cm2, respectively. For the abdomen 0.39, 1.04, 3.51 and 4.05 dGy.cm2 and for the pelvis 0.43, 0.87, 3.50 and 7.58 dGy.cm2. Between X-ray rooms TVs varied against the institutional TVs by -60 to 119 % (chest), -50 to 103 % (abdomen) and -14 and 24 %% (pelvis).ConclusionTVs in this study follow established trends with patient weight and examination type and are comparable with published literature. Variations do exist between individual examination rooms and reasons are multifactorial. Given that age and size do not perfectly correlate further work should be undertaken around weight-based TVs/DRLs in the paediatric setting.

Background: Radiographers are frequently involved in imaging patients in pain thus requiring a heightened awareness and focus on this crucial issue. Purpose: To explore the challenges radiographers encounter when imaging patients in pain and to identify strategies that could be implemented to improve overall patient-centered care. METHODS: A qualitative research study with a single focus group (FG) was conducted using six radiographers working within Irish hospitals. The research questions focused on pain management challenges in the radiology department, particularly identifying radiographers' current practices and strategies to address these challenges. The FG was moderated and video-recorded to facilitate comprehensive analysis. The audio obtained from the FG was transcribed and then analyzed thematically. Results: Data from the FG identified four main themes: 1) consequences ofpain management, 2) communication, 3) professional experience , and 4) barriers . In addition, the study highlighted the absence of current protocols, policies, and guidelines in practice for the effective management of challenges associated with imaging patients in pain within the radiology department. Conclusion: The primary challenges identified include the stress experienced by both staff and patients, the potential for obtaining suboptimal images, concerns regarding patient safety, and adverse effects on image quality. This study elucidates the manner in which patient discomfort adversely impacts the imaging process and delineates the potential implications for radiographers aiming to achieve optimal image quality. At present, there are no established policies or procedures within the radiology department to direct the imaging of patients in pain.

Abstract Background: Dental radiographic examinations deliver low doses of radiation with low biological risks; however, low doses can lead to a cumulative risk. Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) indicate typical practice in a country or region. Surveys to establish DRLs can help acquire dose information, and less attention to DRLs can have consequences for the patient and dental workers. This study aims to determine the knowledge and practice of DRLs, radiation protection, and safety among dental professionals and dental undergraduate students in the United Arab Emirates. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed among dental students, general dental practitioners, dental faculty, and radiographers from dental universities in the United Arab Emirates. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of radiation safety of 221 participants. Results: Among the surveyed respondents, 58 (26.2%) had a good level of knowledge, 94 (42.50%) had an average level, and 69 (31.2%) had a poor level. 30.3% of the respondents were aware of the DRLs in dental radiography. Only 10 survivors were able to accurately mention the national DRL for intraoral adult radiography. The level of knowledge is significantly associated with age ( P < 0.0001), year of experience ( P < 0.0001), and professional development courses ( P = 0.024). Almost half had an average level of practice, 30.8% a good level and 22.6% a low level. The level of practice is influenced by age ( P = 0.001), qualification ( P = 0.034), and experience ( P = 0.022). Conclusions: Knowledge of DRLs, radiation protection, and safety is adequate among the sample surveyed. However, translation of this knowledge into practice is lacking, which warrants the need for further training and enhancement of dental health-care workers.

PurposeData from healthcare scholarly journals show that there is a significant and persistent gender gap in academic publishing. There has been little research into potential gender disparities in publication productivity in the medical radiation sciences (MRS). The aim of this study, therefore, was to analyse and explain potential gender differences in article authorship and acceptance for publication in the Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences (JMIRS) for 5 years (2017-2021).MethodologyThe annual submissions to the JMIRS were assessed with respect to the gender in the categories of first, last and corresponding authors. The proportions of male and female authors in each year were reported, as well as the proportions of rejections and acceptances by gender. Radiation therapy (RT) was also disaggregated from the other MRS disciplines (diagnostic imaging including ultrasound) due to a known significantly higher publication rate.ResultsThere were 1116 submissions to JMIRS in all MRS disciplines over the period 2017-2021. The number of female first authors (n=501), last authors (n=430) and corresponding authors (n=456) constituted 44.9%, 38.5% and 40.9% of total first, last and corresponding authors. Overall, female authorship in all categories of authorship placement increased over the timeframe reviewed, and the percentage gain in the increase was higher than that for male authorship. However, male authorship started from a higher baseline in 2017, and it has also increased year on year and overall, as well as in each placement category examined. The three largest contributing countries to JMIRS publication were Canada, the UK and Australia, have 72.3%, 76.1% and 68.3% female MRS populations, respectively. The proportion of female authors, therefore, does not reflect the proportions of females in the profession in each country. There were 138 RT submissions. Female RTs have a statistically higher percentage of being the first and last authors of articles published in the journal in this field than for the other specialist areas in MRS. There were no significant differences in rejection rate by gender. Rejection ratios were 54:46 (Female: Male) for the first authors and 46:54 for the last author. Male author citation rates were significantly higher (1.69 Female, 2.16 Male).ConclusionsDespite the rising trend in female authorship over the 5 years overall and in each of the first, last, and corresponding authors places the overall number of male authors as well as the number in each category, consistently exceeds that of female authors showing that the gender publication gap in the journal exists. First and senior authorship rates do not reflect the gender proportions in the profession. Positive trends in female authorship suggest progress, but efforts are needed to address underlying barriers. The higher representation of female authors in RT compared to other MRS disciplines is possibly influenced by various factors, such as the nature of the research or the culture within the RT subfield.

BackgroundMedical Imaging and radiotherapy (MIRT) are at the forefront of artificial intelligence applications. The exponential increase of these applications has made governance frameworks necessary to uphold safe and effective clinical adoption. There is little information about how healthcare practitioners in MIRT in the UK use AI tools, their governance and associated challenges, opportunities and priorities for the future.MethodsThis cross-sectional survey was open from November to December 2022 to MIRT professionals who had knowledge or made use of AI tools, as an attempt to map out current policy and practice and to identify future needs. The survey was electronically distributed to the participants. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics on the SPSS statistical software. Content analysis was employed for the open-ended questions.ResultsAmong the 245 responses, the following were emphasised as central to AI adoption: governance frameworks, practitioner training, leadership, and teamwork within the AI ecosystem. Prior training was strongly correlated with increased knowledge about AI tools and frameworks. However, knowledge of related frameworks remained low, with different professionals showing different affinity to certain frameworks related to their respective roles. Common challenges and opportunities of AI adoption were also highlighted, with recommendations for future practice.

All healthcare providers must ensure unrestricted access to care and equitable opportunity without barriers. Deaf persons, on the other hand, continue to experience difficulties in all facets of the healthcare system daily. Therefore, the study aims to explore deaf people's perspectives of accessing radiology in Ireland to develop further a set of instructions that could optimize communication between deaf people and radiographers. This was a qualitative study in which the experiences of deaf people were explored by conducting a solution-focused workshop with eight deaf participants. The identified themes from the transcript of the solution-focused workshop revolve around the barriers and challenges that deaf individuals encounter when accessing healthcare services. Also, factors such as stigma, lack of patience and poor attitude can influence deaf people's decision on whether they should return to that healthcare setting. Therefore, creating awareness and improving communication techniques could encourage deaf people to return for treatments or services and prevent a delay in healthcare treatment. Also, A national standard for communicating with deaf patients in Radiology Departments is a vital part that must be considered to ensure the area's continued development and advancement and to bridge the gap in communication between deaf patients and radiographers.

Background In Ireland, radiographers typically work in the public or private sector. This study investigates the determinants influencing radiographers' employment choices between the public and private sectors, offering employers valuable insights into the key factors that shape these decisions. Methods An online questionnaire was distributed nationally via social media and email. The survey gathered data on demographics, job acceptance factors, career progression, employee retention, and perceived sector advantages. Descriptive and qualitative analyses were employed. Results One hundred and forty-one radiographers completed the survey, representing approximately 4.7 % of state-registered (CORU) radiographers in Ireland. Key differences between sectors emerged: public sector radiographers prioritized pension, job security, and paid sick leave. Private sector radiographers valued salary, benefits, working hour flexibility, and specialized training opportunities. Career progression was viewed more favorably in the private sector (58 %) compared to the public sector (41 %). Both sectors reported similar retention issues, primarily due to heavy workloads and burnout. Conclusion Employers can improve radiographer retention by aligning their strategies with the motivations of these professionals. The appeal of the public sector is rooted in stability and comprehensive benefits, whereas the private sector attracts radiographers through flexibility, opportunities for professional development, and higher income potential. By effectively balancing compensation, resources, and incentives, in conjunction with promoting technological innovation, organizations can significantly enhance radiographer retention in Ireland.

The National Model of Care for Paediatric Healthcare Services, published in 2016, aims to ensure high-quality care for children across Ireland. However, with few exceptions, radiology departments in general hospitals "lack the necessary physical infrastructure, facilities, and staff training required for paediatrics." These deficiencies can adversely affect a patient's behaviour and emotions, exacerbating fear of the healthcare system. This study sought to identify the challenges faced by radiographers in Ireland during paediatric imaging, with a focus on post-qualification training and the use of distraction techniques. A cross-sectional, qualitative online survey was conducted via Microsoft Forms, comprising 37 close-ended and eight open-ended questions on paediatric training, challenges, and distraction use. Ninety-six participants were recruited through snowball sampling from 26 hospitals and private clinics across Ireland. Only a small proportion of radiographers (n = 25, 26%) undertook post-qualification training in paediatric imaging, and many reported inadequate educational opportunities (n = 52, 60%). Patient cooperation (n = 45, 52%) and toddlers (n = 75, 90%) were identified as the most challenging aspect and age group, respectively. While distraction is commonly employed (n = 79, 91%), radiology departments often provide insufficient equipment (n = 65, 76%). The lack of equipment and training highlights the need for improvement in paediatric medical imaging services. The development of new training courses and distraction tools may enhance practice, ensuring the provision of high-quality paediatric care. Expanding radiographer training and implementing distraction tools may help paediatric patients better cope with the anxiety and stress associated with healthcare settings.

BACKGROUND: To reduce radiation dose and subsequent risks, several legislative documents in different countries describe the need for Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs). Spinal radiography is a common and high-dose examination. Therefore, the aim of this work was to establish the DRL for Computed Tomography (CT) examinations of the spine in healthcare institutions across Jordan. METHODS: Data was retrieved from the picture archiving and communications system (PACS), which included the CT Dose Index (CTDI(vol)) and Dose Length Product (DLP). The median radiation dose values of the dosimetric indices were calculated for each site. DRL values were defined as the 75th percentile distribution of the median CTDI( vol) and DLP values. RESULTS: Data was collected from 659 CT examinations (316 cervical spine and 343 lumbar-sacral spine). Of the participants, 68% were males, and the patients' mean weight was 69.7 kg (minimum = 60; maximum = 80, SD = 8.9). The 75th percentile for the DLP of cervical and LS-spine CT scans in Jordan were 565.2 and 967.7 mGy.cm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This research demonstrates a wide range of variability in CTDI( vol) and DLP values for spinal CT examinations; these variations were associated with the acquisition protocol and highlight the need to optimize radiation dose in spinal CT examinations.