Prof. Sarah Lewis1, Dr Dania Abu Awwad2, Suzanne Hill1, Dr Yobelli Jimenez2
1Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, Australia, 2The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
Biography:
Professor Sarah Lewis is the Dean of Health Sciences at Western Sydney University. Sarah is an internationally renowned medical imaging academic, senior researcher, registered diagnostic radiographer and breast cancer survivor. She has been awarded over $17 million dollars in research funding, primarily in the cancer imaging and radiographic best practice.
Abstract:
Introduction
Evidence based practice in infection prevention and control (IPC) is essential in healthcare settings, yet adherence to IPC guidelines varies among radiographers in CT. While national IPC guidelines exist, there is a lack of specific guidance tailored to medical imaging environments and technology. This study aimed to develop consensus-based recommendations for IPC practices in CT.
Methods
A three-round modified e-Delphi study was conducted with experienced CT radiographers and nurses from various healthcare settings across Australia. The statements were based on Australian national IPC guidelines, with experts rating and refining statements related to IPC training, workflow, and best practice for use of contrast injector equipment. Consensus was defined as ≥80% agreement.
Results
In round 1, 34 participants agreed on the importance of personal protective equipment availability, workflow when cannulating, and removing gloves when leaving the CT space. After three rounds, 24 remaining participants reached consensus on 15 of 19 statements, agreeing on hand hygiene practices when setting up the injector and maintaining clean and dirty spaces. Consensus was not reached regarding the risks associated with single-use and multi-use injectors, contamination risk of contrast, and glove use while connecting and disconnecting contrast tubing to patients.
Conclusion
The study established some consensus-based recommendations to enhance IPC adherence among radiographers and nurses that are specific to CT and align to Australian national IPC guidelines. Findings underscore the importance of standardising IPC training and clearer communication of IPC policies to prevent human error and improve safety but additional guidelines for different technologies remain unaddressed.