Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Radiographers Towards Aseptic Techniques in Emergency and Trauma Imaging
Christian Lou Ablin 1, Shahani Naim 1, 2, Betsy Rose Borja 1, 3, *
1 College of Radiologic Technology, Iligan Medical Center College, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines; christianablin@gmail.com (C.L.A.)
2 Provincial Health Office - Capitol Complex, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, Philippines; shahaninaim@gmail.com (S.N.)
3 Philippines Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center – Bohol, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines
* Correspondence: radtechimcc@gmail.com
Abstract:
Emergency and trauma imaging is one area in radiology where cross-contamination frequently occurs. Therefore, radiographers must have adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and safe practices of aseptic techniques in this area to reduce infection and prevent its associated health risks. This study aims to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards aseptic techniques in emergency and trauma imaging and its association with demographic profile of radiographers in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 74 radiographers from seven tertiary care hospitals in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. An adapted questionnaire was used to measure radiographers’ KAP level towards aseptic techniques in emergency and trauma imaging. Results showed that most radiographers have positive attitudes but have inadequate knowledge and unsafe practice of aseptic techniques in emergency and trauma imaging. Radiographers who have earned a graduate or postgraduate degree were more likely to have adequate knowledge and safe practices of aseptic techniques. Older and experienced radiographers were more likely to have safe practices of aseptic techniques towards emergency and trauma imaging. Given the results, further training is required for radiographers in Northern Mindanao, Philippines, regarding aseptic technique practices in emergency and trauma imaging, targeted to less experienced and younger radiographers.
Keywords: aseptic techniques; emergency department; KAP; radiographers; trauma imaging
