Autism-friendly MRI: improving radiography practice in the UK, a survey of radiographer practitioners.

Stogiannos, N, Harvey-lloyd, Jane, Nugent, B, Brammer, A, Carlier, S, Cleaver, K, McNulty, J P, Sá Dos Reis, C and Malamateniou, C (2021) Autism-friendly MRI: improving radiography practice in the UK, a survey of radiographer practitioners. Radiography (London, England : 1995), 28 (1). pp. 133-141. ISSN 1532-2831

[thumbnail of Autism-friendly MRI Improving radiography practice in the UK a survey of radiographer practitioners.pdf]
Preview
Text
Autism-friendly MRI Improving radiography practice in the UK a survey of radiographer practitioners.pdf - Accepted Version
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives.

Download (222kB) | Preview

Abstract

Autistic individuals undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations may face significant challenges, mainly due to sensory overload and MRI environment-related limitations. This study aimed to explore radiographers' perspectives and experiences regarding MRI scanning of autistic individuals. Data collection was achieved using a specifically designed mixed methods questionnaire on Qualtrics. The snowball technique was used. This UK-wide survey was electronically distributed by three main recruitment agencies between December 2020 and February 2021. 130 valid responses were received. A lack of relevant training and knowledge related to autism was noted. Effective communication, optimisation and customisation of the MRI examination, and MRI environment adjustments facilitated the completion of a safe and effective MRI examination. Poor patient-radiographer communication, unavailability of Special Educational Needs (SEN) experts, lack of specialised radiographer training and lack of specific guidelines were identified as the main barriers to successful MRI examinations. Although routine MRI safety and patient care rules will apply, MRI scanning of autistic individuals requires customisation and reasonable adjustments in communication, environment, and training of clinical teams. In addition, guidelines should be established to be used as a reference point to improve clinical practice. The adjustments proposed by radiographers were all consistent with the interventions in the wider literature. MRI practice for personalised care of autistic individuals should be aligned with current evidence, to customise communication and offer workflow and environmental adjustments. Formal training related to autism, integrated within radiography academic curricula and better co-ordination and communication of interdisciplinary teams would provide the necessary skill mix to deliver safe, high quality MRI scans with optimal experience for autistic service users and their carer(s). [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2021 The College of Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.]

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: person-centred care, patient-centred care, magnetic resonance imaging, Autism, adjustments
Subjects: R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Health & Science > Department of Health Studies
SWORD Depositor: Pub Router
Depositing User: Pub Router
Date Deposited: 14 Oct 2021 10:13
Last Modified: 02 Feb 2023 10:30
URI: https://oars.uos.ac.uk/id/eprint/2023

Actions (login required)

View Item
View Item