Purpose
For years, sonographers, also known as ultrasound reporting radiographers, have actively conducted research to advance disease diagnosis, explore new imaging techniques, and improve patient outcomes. Despite their significant contributions, the perspectives of sonographers on research remain understudied. Recognizing their crucial role in implementing research outcomes in daily practice, it is essential to understand the views of sonographers. This study aims to explore the perspectives of sonographers regarding research.
Methods and materials
A cross-sectional online questionnaire was developed and pilot-tested with 7 sonographers from three countries (Denmark, Portugal, and the UK) to assess length, comprehensibility, and minimize response bias.The 21-item questionnaire, inspired by gaps in current literature, included closed, open-ended, and scale questions on background, motivation, barriers, research involvement, access, interest, and performance. Participants provided informed consent before starting the questionnaire, which remained open for 8 weeks between January and March 2023. Data were stored securely in the REDCap database within the Danish OPEN network. The study...
Results
This study included a total of 165 sonographers from 26 countries, with the majority from Europe (66.1%). Participants had a median age of 42, ranging from 23 to 69 years. Educationally, 62.9% held postgraduate qualifications, and 34.7% identified as sonographers. While 7.9% performed ultrasound scans for research, 12.2% were affiliated with a university. Most read scientific articles monthly or weekly, with 68.5% desiring increased involvement in ultrasound research. Barriers included lack of time (43%). Despite 10.9% individually paying for journal access, 46.8% had free access...
Conclusion
This study found that half of the sonographers had an academic level of 7, and nearly two-thirds had never published in a peer-reviewed journal. Despite this, there was significant interest and engagement in research during their ultrasound qualification. The observed interest and intrinsic motivation suggest the potential for developing an advanced role with a research focus. To support sonographers in building research skills, addressing local-level barriers and enablers is crucial for a valuable and clinically relevant output.
Personal information and conflict of interest
M. R. V. Pedersen:
Nothing to disclose
B. Kraus:
Nothing to disclose
R. Santos:
Nothing to disclose
G. Harrison:
Nothing to disclose
References
Radiographers´individual perspectives on sonography – A survey of European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS) Malene Roland V. Pedersen, Barbara Krause, Rute Santos, Gill Harrison. Radiography, 2022, doi.10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.018
European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS). Gill Harrison, Barbara Krause, Rute Santos, Malene Roland V. Pedersen Radiography, 2021. 27:761-767.
The role of radiographers in ultrasound: A survey of the national societies within the Radiographers in ultrasound: motivation and role expansion. A survey of the European Federation of Radiographers Societies (EFRS). Gill Harrison, Barbara Krause, Rute Santos, Malene Roland...