Purpose
To examine in detail the performance of two advanaced practiceRadiographers undertaking Barium Swallows between January2007 and December 2008 : focusing on radiation dose, patient satisfaction, activity and waiting times and accuracy of reports.
Methods and Materials
Two Gastro- Intestinal (GI) specialist Radiographers attended a training course in September 2006 and received practical in - hospital training concurrently. By February 2007 they were performing lists unaided and issuing double reports alongside a Radiologist.This poster details their progress from January 2007 until December 2008
Results
Radiation Doseradiographer 1radiographer 2radiologistshospital 1hospital 2national DRLScreening time (mins)0.870.80.49 -2.261.51.52.2Dose (cGycm2)83.172.540 - 614200 - 400350 - 5001100Patient SatisfactionPatients were asked to rate their experience during their Barium Swallow appointment, by means of a questionnaire. They were asked to rate the explanation, pre appointment and whilst in the department. This revealed only 7% were unsatisfied and comments were provided to help improve the service. For example, could more information be sent out prior to attendance.ActivityActivity increased throughout the audit period by approximately 10% per year, but...
Conclusion
Having presented these findings to the Radiology Directorate, the Radiographer Lead Barium Swallow service has been deemed a great success for the following reasons -Saving 3 hours of Radiologist time per sessionDecreased dosePatients satisfiedIncreased activityWaiting times under 2 weeksReports 97% accurateThe radiographers concerned will, as a result, undertake a formal reporting qualification to enable them to work towardsindependant reporting ofboth barium swallows and videofluoroscopy studies once qualified.
References
Developing protocols for advanced and consultant practice, Nightingale, JRadiographyVolume 14, Supplement 1, December 2008, Pages e55-e60An evaluation of radiographer performed and interpreted barium swallows and meals, Judson,E, Nightingale, JClinical Radiology(2009) 64, 807-814An evaluation of radiographer performed and interpreted barium swallows and meals, Judson,E, Nightingale, J
