An investigation into the perceptions of radiographers in the Greater Sydney metropolitan area on performing intravenous contrast media administration

Aim: To investigate the perceptions of radiographers in the Greater Sydney metropolitan area concerning the performance of intravenous contrast media injections by radiographers. Methods: 90 radiographers (corresponds to a 40.9% return) from five randomly selected private radiology practices and five randomly selected public hospitals within the Greater Sydney metropolitan area were surveyed. The survey was structured such that each section of the survey related to a specific objective of the study. This study focuses on training, departmental workflow and medicolegal issues. Results: Radiographers from private practices were more in favour of performing intravenous contrast media administration, although the majority of the radiographers surveyed felt that it should be performed as part of their normal duties. They felt that it would greatly aid department workflow and patient throughput. However, there were concerns about the medicolegal implications of this added responsibility. Conclusions: Most respondents were in favour of radiographers performing contrast media injections. Standardised and accredited training, including education on the medicolegal coverage available to them, may be needed to allay their concerns and adequately prepare them to take on this extended role. (author abstract)