Newly qualified radiographers' perceptions of their abnormality detection abilities and the associated training they received at undergraduate level

Introduction: Abnormality detection system use across National Health Service (NHS) hospitals is widespread with radiographer participation considered as fundamental to the role. The “red dot” system is evolving towards the preliminary clinical evaluation (PCE) system. Newly qualified radiographers will be expected to be able to provide accurate descriptive comments. Confidence and training issues may hinder implementation of the PCE system. Method: An online quantitative survey approach was used. Participants were sought from 24 major trauma centres (MTC) across England. The sample frame was defined as radiographers who had been qualified less than 2 years. Approval to approach was granted by all local Research & Development departments. Cross-tabulation and correlational statistical analyses were undertaken. Results: Approval to approach radiographers was granted in 17 of the 24 MTCs yielding 85 participants, 63 females and 22 males. The large majority are confident with their red dot skills. Strong correlation exists between university training and PCE confidence. However, almost a third of participants are not confident in describing abnormalities. Thirty percent of participants thought PCE training at university was not suitable, and 55% thought PCE training on placement was not suitable. Conclusion: While red dot training at university and placement is considered suitable as it positively affects confidence, participants' views on PCE training are more variable. At university PCE training positively influences confidence in describing abnormalities, but commenting training on placement is recognised as an area for improvement. A larger study is suggested to gain further understanding of any issues hindering widespread PCE implementation