Knowledge and practices of radiographers when imaging children with non-accidental injuries at a public hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

Non-accidental injury (NAI) in children is defined as an abuse, where injury is inflicted intentionally. Radiographers are the first point of care to identify the area with injury and provide x-ray films to show that the injuries result from NAIs. The research shows a dearth of studies on knowledge and practice of radiographers when imaging children with NAIs. It is imperative to understand this information in order to provide training for radiographers, and ultimately improve the diagnosis of NAIs, so that children can be protected from the abuse. Aim of the study The purpose of the study was to explore radiographers’ knowledge and practice when imaging children with NAI in order to develop them in this aspect and ultimately recommend training required. Methodology An exploratory, qualitative research design using a case study approach was employed in this research. Criterion sampling was used to select a public hospital that treats children with injuries in KwaZulu-Natal. Homogenous sampling was used to select radiographers employed by this hospital to participate in the study and a sample size of 10 radiographers participated in this study. Semi-structured, face-to-face and one-on-one interviews utilising open-ended questions were used to collect data from the participants. Data collection stopped with the 8th participant when data became saturated. Data was transcribed verbatim before data analysis. Tesch’s method of data analysis was used in the analysis. Findings Collected raw data was transcribed and proceeded with thematic analysis where the following themes merged; knowledge of NAI in children, care of children with NAI, practice when imaging children with NAI, quality of images in children with NAI and acquiring knowledge of NAI in children. The study revealed that radiographers lack knowledge and practice on imaging children with NAI. The study findings also identified factors that compromise a lack of knowledge and practice. Conclusion It is vital for radiographers to attain knowledge and practice on imaging children with NAI so as to enable them to detect a suspected NAI case. The intervention of Government on the implementation of relevant policies pertaining NAI, will assist radiographer and other medical team to follow all required procedures elicit the evidence of NAI. The participants of the study insist they require training on how to treat and classify NAI cases, and the ultimately goal is to secure the safety and protection of children.