Influences on Radiographers’ Choice of Immobilisation Methods in Paediatric Radiological Examinations

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the main influences on radiographers’ decisions about immobilisation methods in paediatric radiological examinations.

Methods and Materials: Australian and New Zealand radiographers were recruited to complete an online questionnaire identifying their use of different immobilisation methods and the influences on their choices. Follow-up interviews were conducted to further explore the findings. Institutional approval was obtained. Closed-end questions were analysed using frequencies and non-parametric tests (Fisher’s exact and Mann-Whitney U), while content analysis was applied to open-end questions and interview data.

Results: 65 completed questionnaires were received; 7 respondents also participated in interviews. Parental holding was the most likely method to be used (96.9%), but psychological methods (87.7%) were considered preferable as using less force and causing less distress to children and parents. Mechanical and chemical methods were not often used. Participants sought to adapt their immobilisation practice to each situation, often using the child’s age as a guide. Existing informal workplace training was perceived as adequate but not optimal. Opinions were divided over whether introducing written guidance would limit radiographers’ ability to adapt to different situations.

Conclusion: Immobilisation is a case-by-case activity which requires radiographers to seek a balance between different factors, consistently constrained by examination type and resource availability. Patient age was the most commonly considered factor, although this was acknowledged to be an imperfect guide. Short placements at paediatric institutions are recommended as a useful way of improving immobilisation education. Increased support from governing bodies is also required.