The acceptance of radiographers to use Non-fluoroscopy Guided Positioning and the influence of leadership: a survey research

Abstract

Although using fluoroscopy to position the patient for radiographic examinations cannot be justified, it is commonly used by several radiology departments. In an attempt to understand the determinants of non-fluoroscopy-guided positioning, this study investigates the predictive value of performance expectancy, effort expectancy and social influence. Subsequently, the moderation of individualised consideration by the head radiographer, as a leadership trait, is tested. The study is performed by using data of a self-administered paper and pencil questionnaire distributed among 17 Belgian hospitals. All 301 radiographers working in radiology departments were invited to cooperate. We found that effort expectancy is the strongest predictor, closely followed by performance expectancy. The effect of social influence is also found to be significant. The outcome of the moderation analysis shows that only the effect of social influence on the behavioural intention to use non-fluoroscopy-guided positioning is significantly moderated by individualised consideration. In conclusion we can state that the findings of this research can be a helpful tool for radiologists and head radiographers to stimulate the staff to improve imaging practices.