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HEALTH AND SAFETY OF<br />

RADIOGRAPHERS AND<br />

RADIOLOGICAL<br />

TECHNOLOGISTS WITH<br />

SPECIAL FOCUS ON<br />

MUSCULOSKELETAL<br />

DISORDERS AND BURN-OUT<br />

SYNDROME.<br />

A project report for the World <strong>Health</strong> Organization <strong>and</strong> the<br />

International Society <strong>of</strong> <strong>Radiographers</strong> [Document <strong>and</strong> subtitle] Radiologic<br />

Technologists<br />

Min Ku<br />

December 2021


<strong>Health</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>safety</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Radiographers</strong> <strong>and</strong> Radiological Technologists with<br />

special focus on Musculoskeletal (<strong>MSK</strong>) disorders <strong>and</strong> Burn-out syndrome.<br />

Preface<br />

This research has been conducted on behalf <strong>of</strong> the International Society <strong>of</strong> <strong>Radiographers</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

Radiologic Technologists for the World <strong>Health</strong> Organisation. It comprises elements <strong>of</strong> work<br />

undertaken as part <strong>of</strong> a higher degree in research by the author.<br />

This research <strong>and</strong> subsequent report has been undertaken to highlight the challenges experienced<br />

by medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals internationally.<br />

Executive Report<br />

There is a paucity <strong>of</strong> literature examining the effects <strong>of</strong> musculoskeletal disorders <strong>and</strong> burnout in<br />

medical radiation science practitioners globally. This study aims to identify whether there is a<br />

relationship between burnout <strong>and</strong> musculoskeletal injuries experienced by practicing medical<br />

radiation practitioners internationally, <strong>and</strong> the impact <strong>of</strong> this relationship on clinical practice.<br />

This project was completed in collaboration with The International Society <strong>of</strong> <strong>Radiographers</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

Radiological Technologists, an international pr<strong>of</strong>essional body (ISRRT), <strong>and</strong> the World <strong>Health</strong><br />

Organisation (<strong>WHO</strong>).<br />

An ethically approved quantitative online survey was conducted during 2021. The survey was<br />

distributed to all 84 ISRRT society/member countries.<br />

739 individuals accessed the survey, with a total <strong>of</strong> 133 completing the survey instrument<br />

completely. Individuals from at least 17 different countries responded, reflecting the medical<br />

radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>ession in four <strong>of</strong> the six ISRRT regions. The results suggest that medical<br />

radiation practitioners internationally experience feelings <strong>of</strong> discomfort specifically in the neck,<br />

upper <strong>and</strong> lower back, <strong>and</strong> expressed medium to high levels <strong>of</strong> exhaustion <strong>and</strong> disengagement which<br />

are the hallmarks <strong>of</strong> burnout.<br />

Introduction/Background<br />

Universally, healthcare workers provide services to care for the health <strong>of</strong> patients <strong>and</strong> populations. 1<br />

<strong>Health</strong>care workers are highly trained in their individual specialities <strong>and</strong> strive to deliver the best<br />

care possible to their patients. However, there are many factors affecting the healthcare worker in<br />

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the delivery <strong>of</strong> the best outcome for the patient. <strong>Health</strong>care provision comes at an economic cost to<br />

the healthcare system which is already under much stress. 2 Resources available to healthcare<br />

practitioners are shrinking <strong>and</strong> job dem<strong>and</strong>s compounded by high workloads are contributing to high<br />

levels <strong>of</strong> stress in the workplace. 3 These emotionally dem<strong>and</strong>ing working conditions can affect<br />

physical <strong>and</strong> psychological health. 4<br />

The World <strong>Health</strong> Organisation is acutely aware <strong>of</strong> the necessity for good occupational health<br />

measures to be instituted for health care workers. 1 The outbreak <strong>of</strong> the COVID 19 p<strong>and</strong>emic globally<br />

in 2020, highlights the types <strong>of</strong> occupational hazards experienced by healthcare workers daily in<br />

busy, stressful clinical environments. These hazards range from exposure to infection, fatigue,<br />

occupational burnout <strong>and</strong> physical <strong>and</strong> psychological exhaustion. 1,5,6<br />

<strong>Health</strong>care workers include doctors, nurses, <strong>and</strong> allied health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals. Allied <strong>Health</strong><br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essionals are university qualified practitioners that have specialised expertise in preventing,<br />

diagnosing <strong>and</strong> treating a range <strong>of</strong> conditions <strong>and</strong> illnesses. 7 Amongst the allied health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />

are medical radiation science practitioners. This pr<strong>of</strong>ession includes radiographers, radiation<br />

therapists, <strong>and</strong> nuclear medicine technologists. <strong>Radiographers</strong> are responsible for producing high<br />

quality medical images that assist medical specialists <strong>and</strong> practitioners to describe, diagnose,<br />

monitor <strong>and</strong> treat a patient’s injury or illness. 8 Nuclear medicine technologists use small, targeted<br />

doses <strong>of</strong> radiation to create images using different scanning methods to highlight organs <strong>and</strong> tissues<br />

<strong>of</strong> the human body to trace disease <strong>and</strong> abnormalities. 9 Radiation Therapists are responsible for the<br />

design, accurate calculation <strong>and</strong> delivery <strong>of</strong> a prescribed radiation dose over a course <strong>of</strong> treatment<br />

to the oncology patient. 8<br />

For these pr<strong>of</strong>essionals, the major occupational hazard is the close proximity to a patients’ face <strong>and</strong><br />

body, creating a high risk for transmission <strong>of</strong> infectious diseases such as COVID 19. 10,11 Compounding<br />

this are the occupational hazards <strong>of</strong> long working hours, shift work, low salary, lack <strong>of</strong> motivation,<br />

lack <strong>of</strong> training <strong>and</strong> development, lack <strong>of</strong> protective devices <strong>and</strong> minimal well-being activities. 3<br />

To date few studies have been undertaken globally looking at the physical <strong>and</strong> psychological<br />

challenges for the medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essional, resulting from their occupational<br />

environment.<br />

This project focuses on the physical <strong>and</strong> psychological challenges facing the medical radiation<br />

science pr<strong>of</strong>essional in the workplace on a global scale.<br />

It investigates the prevalence <strong>and</strong> predictors <strong>of</strong> burnout <strong>and</strong> the extent <strong>and</strong> severity <strong>of</strong><br />

musculoskeletal discomfort experienced <strong>and</strong> seeks recommendations on interventions that can be<br />

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implemented, in collaboration with management to foster occupational health <strong>and</strong> <strong>safety</strong> <strong>of</strong> the<br />

medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essional. This will result in better quality care for the patient<br />

community.<br />

This project was executed in partnership with, <strong>and</strong> to inform, the International Society <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Radiographers</strong> <strong>and</strong> Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) <strong>and</strong> the World <strong>Health</strong> Organisation (<strong>WHO</strong>).<br />

The ISRRT is “the only organization representing all disciplines <strong>of</strong> Medical Radiation Technologists<br />

internationally”. 12 The role <strong>of</strong> this not-for-pr<strong>of</strong>it organisation is to improve both the st<strong>and</strong>ards <strong>of</strong><br />

delivery <strong>and</strong> practice <strong>of</strong> medical imaging, nuclear medicine, <strong>and</strong> radiation therapy worldwide.<br />

Literature Review:<br />

Occupational Hazards<br />

It is acknowledged that productive <strong>and</strong> engaging work is the key to developing resilience, providing<br />

invaluable social connections, as well as fostering emotional support <strong>and</strong> self-satisfaction in<br />

workers. 13,14 When work is disrupted through injury or illness (mental or physical), workers are<br />

unable to readily access resources to assist them maintain their psychological well-being.<br />

Workplaces have a responsibility to ensure that their workers are able to be rehabilitated <strong>and</strong><br />

returned to work safely. 13,14,15,16<br />

Work can be disrupted as a result <strong>of</strong> occupational hazards in two key areas. The first is related to<br />

physical hazards, <strong>and</strong> the second is psychological hazards. Physical hazards are those that involve a<br />

heavy physical workload, such as lifting <strong>and</strong> moving <strong>of</strong> heavy items <strong>and</strong> repetitive manual tasks. 1<br />

Injuries <strong>and</strong> musculo-skeletal disorders can occur as a result <strong>of</strong> repetition over time, or it may occur<br />

suddenly. 16 Psychological hazards are those that are related to organisational factors or the context<br />

<strong>of</strong> the work environment. These can include factors such as job dem<strong>and</strong>s, 17 working hours, high<br />

workloads, poor job design, low levels <strong>of</strong> job control, high pace <strong>of</strong> work, conflicting work dem<strong>and</strong>s,<br />

communications with management, being valued, health <strong>and</strong> <strong>safety</strong> culture, <strong>and</strong> relationships with<br />

colleagues <strong>and</strong> supervisors. 1,18 These factors collectively can add to occupational stress. Medical<br />

radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals work in health, which is a field, engaging with science, technology<br />

<strong>and</strong> humanity. Irrespective <strong>of</strong> whether the medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essional works in a public<br />

or private organisation, the nature <strong>of</strong> their job dem<strong>and</strong>s requires considerable physical <strong>and</strong> mental<br />

effort to undertake daily tasks. 17 The premise <strong>of</strong> the Job Dem<strong>and</strong>s-Resources (JD-R) model is when<br />

job dem<strong>and</strong>s are high <strong>and</strong> job resources/positives are low, stress <strong>and</strong> burnout increase. However,<br />

the effects <strong>of</strong> high job dem<strong>and</strong>s can be mitigated by job positives such as organisational support <strong>and</strong><br />

resources, leading to better performance <strong>and</strong> staff engagement. 19<br />

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Stress<br />

There is enough evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to job stress is associated with several<br />

types <strong>of</strong> chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal deterioration <strong>and</strong><br />

psychological disorders. 1,20 Increasing job stress increases the risk <strong>of</strong> back <strong>and</strong> upper-extremity<br />

musculoskeletal disorders. 21<br />

Stress can lead to burnout <strong>and</strong> when left unchecked, can contribute to a multitude <strong>of</strong> health<br />

conditions. Medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals are exposed to much occupational stress on a<br />

daily basis.<br />

This report focusses on <strong>MSK</strong> disorders <strong>and</strong> <strong>Burnout</strong> in medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals.<br />

Psychosocial hazards<br />

Psychosocial hazards that increase the risk <strong>of</strong> work-related stress can be the result <strong>of</strong> poor design or<br />

management <strong>of</strong> work. These hazards can contribute to a stress response when experienced<br />

continuously <strong>and</strong> over a prolonged timeframe. 22 Examples <strong>of</strong> common hazards are listed in table 1.<br />

Table 1 – Common Psychosocial hazards 22<br />

High/Low job dem<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Low job control<br />

Poor support<br />

Poor organisational justice<br />

Remote work<br />

Psychosocial Hazards<br />

Poor workplace relationships<br />

Low role clarity<br />

Poor organisational change management<br />

Low recognition <strong>and</strong> reward<br />

Violent or traumatic events<br />

These psychosocial hazards can lead to work-related physical <strong>and</strong> psychological injuries (mental<br />

illness).<br />

Physical Hazards - <strong>MSK</strong><br />

Musculoskeletal conditions affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, peripheral nerves <strong>and</strong><br />

supporting blood vessels. 23 This presents as persistent pain, <strong>and</strong> consequently reduces the function<br />

<strong>of</strong> the anatomical structure, 21 in turn reducing a person’s ability to work <strong>and</strong> carries a significant cost<br />

to both the clinician <strong>and</strong> the workplace. 22 Example costs include absenteeism, lost productivity,<br />

medical expenses <strong>and</strong> reduced quality <strong>of</strong> life. 25 Exposure to occupational hazards <strong>and</strong> risk factors<br />

daily contributes to these injuries. 23 Information on European workers demonstrates that a third to a<br />

quarter report <strong>MSK</strong> pain, with certain occupations demonstrating a higher level due to the nature <strong>of</strong><br />

physical risk factors encountered. 24,25 Although modern equipment has been provided to reduce<br />

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hazards in the workplace, medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals still undertake a large amount <strong>of</strong><br />

manual h<strong>and</strong>ling in their jobs. Literature investigating <strong>MSK</strong> discomfort specifically in radiographers<br />

demonstrates a range <strong>of</strong> <strong>MSK</strong> problems. These include multiple episodes <strong>of</strong> backache, neck <strong>and</strong><br />

shoulder pain <strong>and</strong> upper extremity pain. 26,27,28<br />

The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) designed by the Human Factors <strong>and</strong><br />

Ergonomics Laboratory at Cornell University 29 is a data tool used to elicit information regarding<br />

frequency, severity <strong>and</strong> work interference <strong>of</strong> musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) across 20 body<br />

parts. 30 This tool was originally used to evaluate <strong>of</strong>fice workers 31,32 <strong>and</strong> has also been used in the<br />

assessment <strong>of</strong> <strong>MSK</strong> in nursing personnel, 33 radiologists 34 <strong>and</strong> healthcare personnel. 35 The CMDQ is a<br />

tool that has been utilised for assessing work performance outcomes, <strong>and</strong> the extent <strong>of</strong> <strong>MSK</strong> issues<br />

in the working population.<br />

1.2. Aims <strong>and</strong> Research Questions<br />

Objectives:<br />

The objectives <strong>of</strong> this project are to:<br />

1. Identify the leading causes <strong>of</strong> health care workers’ health <strong>and</strong> <strong>safety</strong> issues (in addition to<br />

radiation protection issues) in particular musculoskeletal issues, psychological burden for facing<br />

terminally ill patients, <strong>and</strong> violence at work.<br />

2. Investigate whether the “burn-out" among radiation health staff has affected imaging <strong>and</strong> therapy<br />

practices.<br />

2.1. Methodology<br />

This study utilised a quantitative approach to obtain an underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> the different factors that<br />

may be contributing <strong>and</strong> affecting well-being <strong>and</strong> health <strong>and</strong> <strong>safety</strong> <strong>of</strong> the medical radiation science<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional. This review will also investigate what practices can counteract <strong>and</strong> manage these<br />

stressors to facilitate <strong>and</strong> contribute to the development <strong>of</strong> a strong, healthy (mental <strong>and</strong> physical)<br />

work force.<br />

2.2. Participants<br />

The participants consisted <strong>of</strong> male <strong>and</strong> female medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals <strong>of</strong> different<br />

years <strong>of</strong> qualification <strong>and</strong> experience, employed in private <strong>and</strong> public hospitals / clinics/<br />

organisations in the various continents <strong>of</strong> Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, South America <strong>and</strong><br />

Oceania (Australia & New Zeal<strong>and</strong>).<br />

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2.3 Ethical Considerations<br />

This project was submitted for ethical approval by the RMIT University Human Research Ethics<br />

Committee (Project ID: BCHEAN 22395) as per NHMRC guidelines for research involving human<br />

subjects. Participation in the study was voluntary, non-compensated <strong>and</strong> without obligation.<br />

Negligible risk beyond participant inconvenience was anticipated. Consent was implied upon<br />

questionnaire return.<br />

2.4 Data Collection <strong>and</strong> Recording Procedures<br />

An online survey was conducted with the Qualtrics Insight Platform s<strong>of</strong>tware package. Participants<br />

were invited via email by the CEO <strong>of</strong> the ISRRT, with no disclosure <strong>of</strong> identifying details to the<br />

researchers. Responses were recorded in aggregate form, <strong>and</strong> all individual replies were deidentified.<br />

All surveys, complete <strong>and</strong> incomplete, were analysed. The survey was made available<br />

from 24 May 2021 <strong>and</strong> closed for further participation on 31 July 2021. The survey took 10- 15<br />

minutes for participants to complete <strong>and</strong> was conducted in English.<br />

Once data collection was initiated, only research team members had access to the digital data.<br />

Digital components were computer-password protected. Digital data will be destroyed after five<br />

years.<br />

2.5 Instrumentation<br />

Quantitative surveys containing questions seeking socio demographic data, the Oldenburg <strong>Burnout</strong><br />

Inventory <strong>and</strong> the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) were distributed.<br />

These validated tools can be found in Appendix 1<br />

The Oldenburg <strong>Burnout</strong> inventory (OLBI) was initially developed as a measure <strong>of</strong> burnout, containing<br />

statements that cover both ends <strong>of</strong> the exhaustion-vigour <strong>and</strong> cynicism-dedication continua. The<br />

inventory has been extensively used in research to measure job <strong>and</strong> academic burnout. 36,37<br />

The 16-item questionnaire addressed exhaustion <strong>and</strong> disengagement items on a 5-point Likert-scale.<br />

The survey respondents were asked to indicate a response ranging through Strongly agree, Agree,<br />

No Opinion, Disagree <strong>and</strong> Strongly Disagree. Questions were scored into disengagement <strong>and</strong><br />

exhaustion categories consisting <strong>of</strong> both positively <strong>and</strong> negatively framed questions. Prior to<br />

calculation <strong>of</strong> the final score, negatively framed questions had their scoring reversed. The sub totals<br />

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from the two categories were totalled for an OLBI final score. The higher the total final OLBI score,<br />

the greater the level <strong>of</strong> burnout.<br />

The CMDQ seeks information from the participant through self-evaluation in all musculoskeletal<br />

areas including the neck, shoulder, upper back, upper arm, low back, forearm, wrist, hips/buttock,<br />

thighs, knee, lower leg, <strong>and</strong> foot. Information was sought on whether the participant experienced<br />

aching pain, or discomfort, how <strong>of</strong>ten it was experienced, if it was experienced (never, 1-2 times last<br />

week, 3-4 times last week, once daily or several times daily), what the level <strong>of</strong> discomfort was<br />

(slightly, moderately or very uncomfortable), <strong>and</strong> if it affected the ability to work (not at all, slightly<br />

or substantially interfered). The total discomfort score was calculated by using the following<br />

formula: frequency × discomfort × interference = discomfort score. 29<br />

The purpose <strong>of</strong> this survey was to analyse subjective self-evaluation <strong>of</strong> burnout <strong>and</strong> musculo-skeletal<br />

discomfort in medical radiation practitioners internationally.<br />

The survey also included a series <strong>of</strong> questions containing socio-demographic questions, which<br />

included questions related to workplace characteristics, <strong>and</strong> occupational qualifications.<br />

3.1 Results<br />

739 respondents consented to participate in the study, <strong>of</strong> which a total <strong>of</strong> 406 completed the survey.<br />

Only 133 respondents completed the full Oldenburg <strong>Burnout</strong> inventory <strong>and</strong> Cornell Musculoskeletal<br />

Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) in its entirety including demographic data. 222 participants did<br />

not complete (69), or partially completed (153), the CMDQ, whilst 51 completed the CMDQ <strong>and</strong> did<br />

not complete the demographic section <strong>of</strong> their survey responses.<br />

Therefore, this analysis is based on the 133 medical radiation practitioners who completed the<br />

entire survey instrument. It is unknown how many prospects were sent this survey, as this<br />

information was not able to be provided by the individual member societies which sent the survey to<br />

their respective memberships. Of the respondents who did engage with the survey, there was a<br />

completion rate <strong>of</strong> 33%.<br />

3.1.1 OLBI Analysis<br />

The OLBI measures components <strong>of</strong> exhaustion <strong>and</strong> disengagement. For the purposes <strong>of</strong> this<br />

analysis, the scores have been broken into the categories <strong>of</strong> low (21/ Disengagement >22).<br />

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Table 2 – <strong>Burnout</strong> component scores<br />

<strong>Burnout</strong><br />

Range<br />

Component Level scores Frequency Percentage<br />

Exhaustion Low 21 52 39.1<br />

Disengagement Low 22 17 12.8<br />

From these results in Table 2, <strong>of</strong> the 133 respondents, 51.9% experienced moderate levels <strong>of</strong><br />

exhaustion <strong>and</strong> 66.2% experienced moderate levels <strong>of</strong> disengagement.<br />

Total Calculated OLBI <strong>Burnout</strong> scores can be found in Figure 1. This survey instrument is also a selfevaluation<br />

from the respondents regarding their level <strong>of</strong> burnout that they are experiencing.<br />

Responses highlight that there is a moderate severity <strong>of</strong> burnout being experienced by this cohort <strong>of</strong><br />

participants. Higher total final OLBI scores represented a greater level <strong>of</strong> burnout.<br />

3.1.2 CMDQ Analysis<br />

During the time that this survey was conducted, 98.5% <strong>of</strong> participants experienced aches, pain <strong>and</strong><br />

discomfort in all body regions (Table 3) with 62.4% experiencing pain in the neck 1-2 times week or<br />

more with 33% reporting slight discomfort with 21.8% stating that it interfered with their work<br />

slightly. The two other areas which participants reported as affecting their work was the upper back<br />

(51.1%) <strong>and</strong> lower back (68.4%) with both generating slight discomfort (30.8%) with slight<br />

interference to their work; upper back (15.7%) <strong>and</strong> lower back (19.5%). Continuing in the upper<br />

torso, discomfort is experienced in the right (44.4%) <strong>and</strong> left (36.8%) shoulders however this only<br />

causes slight discomfort <strong>and</strong> interference with work. The body regions with the least discomfort are<br />

the left <strong>and</strong> right lower legs (11.3%) <strong>and</strong> the right foot (11.3%).<br />

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When calculating the total discomfort score, the greatest areas <strong>of</strong> concern were in the neck <strong>and</strong> the<br />

lower back.<br />

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19,5<br />

25,5<br />

26<br />

28<br />

29,5<br />

30<br />

30,5<br />

31,5<br />

32<br />

32,5<br />

33<br />

34<br />

34,5<br />

35<br />

35,5<br />

36<br />

36,5<br />

37<br />

37,5<br />

38<br />

38,5<br />

39<br />

39,5<br />

40<br />

40,5<br />

41<br />

41,5<br />

42<br />

43<br />

43,5<br />

44<br />

44,5<br />

45<br />

45,5<br />

46<br />

46,5<br />

47<br />

47,5<br />

48<br />

48,5<br />

49<br />

50,5<br />

51,5<br />

52<br />

# <strong>of</strong> Responses<br />

Figure 1: Total Calculated OLBI <strong>Burnout</strong> scores<br />

TOTAL CALCULATED OLBI BURNOUT SCORE<br />

14<br />

12<br />

10<br />

8<br />

6<br />

4<br />

2<br />

0<br />

<strong>Burnout</strong> score<br />

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Table 3 – Participant’s self-reported levels <strong>of</strong> discomfort<br />

During the last work week how <strong>of</strong>ten did you<br />

experience ache, pain, discomfort in:<br />

1-2<br />

times<br />

last<br />

week<br />

3-4<br />

times<br />

last<br />

week<br />

Several<br />

times<br />

every<br />

day<br />

If you experienced ache, pain, discomfort, how<br />

uncomfortable was this?<br />

Slightly<br />

uncomfortabl<br />

e<br />

Moderately<br />

uncomfortabl<br />

e<br />

Very<br />

uncomfortabl<br />

e<br />

If you experienced ache, pain,<br />

discomfort, did this interfere with<br />

your ability to work?<br />

Slightly<br />

interfere<br />

d<br />

Once<br />

Not at<br />

Body Parts Never<br />

every day<br />

all<br />

Neck 50 38 14 16 15 44 29 10 52 29 8<br />

Shoulder_R 74 34 3 10 12 31 20 8 36 20 8<br />

Shoulder_L 84 25 6 7 11 25 18 5 34 17 6<br />

Upper Back 65 40 13 6 9 41 23 4 44 21 7<br />

Wrist_R 103 16 5 4 5 23 7 1 27 10 3<br />

Wrist_L 110 14 4 2 3 19 5 1 26 6 2<br />

Lower Back 42 49 11 14 17 41 36 13 54 26 12<br />

Forearm_R 111 14 3 3 2 15 7 1 23 7 2<br />

Forearm_L 117 11 2 1 2 13 2 1 23 4 2<br />

Wrist_R 93 22 8 6 4 23 14 3 25 19 4<br />

Wrist_L 110 15 4 2 2 18 2 3 22 8 3<br />

Hip/Buttock<br />

s 96 18 9 7 3 23 13 1 27 17 0<br />

Thigh_R 113 12 4 3 1 19 1 0 23 6 1<br />

Thigh_L 114 9 5 3 2 17 2 0 20 7 1<br />

Knee_R 99 17 8 8 1 22 11 1 18 21 2<br />

Knee_L 101 22 4 3 3 22 7 1 22 18 0<br />

Lower Leg_R 118 10 3 2 0 14 2 1 18 8 0<br />

Lower Leg_L 118 10 3 2 0 13 3 1 20 5 0<br />

Foot_R 118 10 3 2 0 18 13 3 30 11 2<br />

Foot_L 101 20 5 3 4 18 11 3 30 10 1<br />

Substantiall<br />

y interfered<br />

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3.2 Demographic Characteristics<br />

Data provided by respondents demonstrates representation from practitioners working across 17<br />

different countries. Participants represented four <strong>of</strong> the six global regions <strong>of</strong> the ISRRT <strong>and</strong><br />

represented 71% female, 29% male, <strong>and</strong> 1% not declared, Figure 2. Most pr<strong>of</strong>essionals undertaking<br />

this survey were radiographers (76.7%) Figure 3. Survey respondents represented the age bracket <strong>of</strong><br />

31 - 39 years (24%) Figure 4, have been working for 1-5 years (30.5%) Figure 5, <strong>and</strong> hold a bachelor’s<br />

degree (49.6%) Figure 6.<br />

Figure 2 – Respondents by Gender<br />

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# <strong>of</strong> Respondents<br />

Figure 3 – Respondents in pr<strong>of</strong>essional modalities<br />

120<br />

Medical Radiation Science Pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />

100<br />

80<br />

60<br />

40<br />

20<br />

0<br />

Radiography Mammography Sonography Nuclear<br />

Medicine<br />

Radiation<br />

Therapy<br />

Academic<br />

Modalities<br />

Figure 4 – Respondent Age brackets<br />

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# <strong>of</strong> Respondents<br />

Figure 5 – Respondent years <strong>of</strong> working<br />

Figure 6 – Respondent qualifications<br />

Education<br />

70<br />

60<br />

50<br />

40<br />

30<br />

20<br />

10<br />

0<br />

Qualification<br />

Of the 133 medical radiation practitioners 46.6% undertake shift work (Figure 7), <strong>and</strong> 79.7% work<br />

normal shifts (Figure 8).<br />

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# <strong>of</strong> Respondents<br />

Figure 7 – Respondent Working hours<br />

Working hours<br />

72<br />

70<br />

68<br />

66<br />

64<br />

62<br />

60<br />

58<br />

56<br />

Business hours<br />

Working Hours<br />

Shift Work<br />

Figure 8 – Respondent Type <strong>of</strong> shifts<br />

49.6% have 100% direct contact with patients daily, whilst 15.8% <strong>of</strong> medical radiation science<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essionals have less than 50% <strong>of</strong> patient interaction daily (Figure 9).<br />

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Figure 9 – Respondent Amount <strong>of</strong> direct patient contact<br />

See Appendix 2 for additional information regarding the represented nations that contributed to the<br />

survey responses.<br />

4.1 Discussion<br />

This study is one <strong>of</strong> the first studies across four continents investigating the challenges faced<br />

physically <strong>and</strong> the impact on well-being <strong>of</strong> the medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essional in relation to<br />

job stress in the clinical environment. Of note, this study was undertaken 15 months after the world<br />

was first informed <strong>of</strong> the COVID19 virus. 5<br />

Medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals are at the frontline <strong>of</strong> healthcare, dealing with not only a<br />

change in the work environment (change in occupational risk from potential viral exposure) but also<br />

a significant disruption to both psychosocial <strong>and</strong> physical hazards. 38 Imaging examinations, nuclear<br />

medicine imaging <strong>and</strong> radiation therapy treatments continued during this time with the addition <strong>of</strong><br />

personal protective equipment (PPE). The combination <strong>of</strong> manual h<strong>and</strong>ling <strong>of</strong> patients <strong>and</strong> materials<br />

with donning <strong>and</strong> d<strong>of</strong>fing <strong>of</strong> PPE compounded the occupational risk.<br />

Exhaustion, heightened anxiety, stress <strong>and</strong> burnout has been a common theme during this period <strong>of</strong><br />

time. 39,40 This has the potential to lead to staff turnover. 41,42,43 Whilst the sample size in this study<br />

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was relatively small, it does provide an insight into the outcomes <strong>of</strong> working clinically in the<br />

healthcare industry for even a short period <strong>of</strong> time. With 91% <strong>of</strong> respondents expressing moderate<br />

to high exhaustion <strong>and</strong> 79% expressing moderate to high disengagement, this is cause for some<br />

consideration. Data from respondents reporting neck <strong>and</strong> lower back discomfort in this study, have<br />

also been identified by Kumar et al 27 who highlighted a significant range <strong>of</strong> musculoskeletal<br />

problems in x-ray technologists.<br />

RECOMMENDATIONS<br />

It is recommended that medical radiation workplaces strongly consider the long-term effects <strong>of</strong><br />

occupational hazards on their workforce <strong>and</strong> engage with their staff to reduce the risks <strong>of</strong><br />

musculoskeletal injuries <strong>and</strong> staff burnout. Workplace <strong>safety</strong> is a dual responsibility for both<br />

employees <strong>and</strong> management. The suggestions below may be a starting point for conversation.<br />

Clinicians<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Identification <strong>and</strong> reporting to management <strong>of</strong> physical hazards.<br />

Regular training <strong>and</strong> education in preventative measures including debriefing sessions when<br />

required.<br />

Recognising when well-being assistance is required.<br />

Implementation <strong>of</strong> a self-care routine which may include healthy eating habits, exercise,<br />

mindfulness, <strong>and</strong> meditation practice.<br />

Management<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Consideration from management to identify <strong>and</strong> implement improvements in design or<br />

management <strong>of</strong> work to mitigate both psychosocial <strong>and</strong> physical hazards. The process <strong>of</strong><br />

continuous monitoring <strong>and</strong> data collation to ensure the <strong>safety</strong> <strong>and</strong> well being <strong>of</strong> staff is<br />

paramount.<br />

Consultation with staff in relation to improving the ergonomics <strong>of</strong> the workplace e with an<br />

action plan on how to reduce the potential for both initial musculoskeletal injury <strong>and</strong><br />

subsequent aggravation <strong>of</strong> existing or past injuries.<br />

Any changes in work practices will need to be effectively communicated with staff.<br />

Resource provision for staff well-being incorporating strategies for coping with workload,<br />

stress <strong>and</strong> exhaustion.<br />

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Limitations<br />

There are a number <strong>of</strong> limitations identified with this particular study. Both the CMDQ <strong>and</strong> the OLBI<br />

are self-reporting questionnaires so relied on the participants to accurately report. Individual<br />

participants may contribute a level <strong>of</strong> bias to the results. Results may return different response, if<br />

this survey was conducted at a different point in time or conducted multiple times. This was a<br />

quantitative study only <strong>and</strong> did not include a physical examination or any diagnostic procedures.<br />

CMDQ is only a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool. 29<br />

From a logistical perspective, there was no data available on the number <strong>of</strong> people who received this<br />

survey in each <strong>of</strong> the countries. If future research is to be conducted, it is recommended that a more<br />

targeted approach to the individual pr<strong>of</strong>essional associations be undertaken with specific<br />

encouragement to the North American medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essionals.<br />

There is scope for extending this study, <strong>and</strong> potentially undertaking a comparative study <strong>of</strong> country<br />

to country using the same tools <strong>and</strong> process. To obtain further information, the Maslach <strong>Burnout</strong><br />

Inventory validated tool, may be valuable in providing more in-depth information into emotional<br />

exhaustion, depersonalisation <strong>and</strong> reduced personal accomplishment.<br />

The authors also recommend bringing in a qualitative element to the study to gain further<br />

underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> the specific causes <strong>of</strong> the burnout <strong>and</strong> musculoskeletal disorders.<br />

5.1 Conclusion<br />

In conclusion, this study indicated that medical radiation science pr<strong>of</strong>essional experienced feelings <strong>of</strong><br />

discomfort specifically in the neck, upper <strong>and</strong> lower back, <strong>and</strong> expressed medium levels <strong>of</strong><br />

exhaustion <strong>and</strong> disengagement which are the hallmarks <strong>of</strong> burnout. Further research is needed on<br />

the relationship between musculoskeletal discomfort, burnout, specific factors that are contributing<br />

to this, <strong>and</strong> its influence on the quality <strong>of</strong> patient care.<br />

Acknowledgements<br />

I wish to thank my supervisors Pr<strong>of</strong> Timothy Bartram, Dr Jillian Cavanagh <strong>and</strong> Dr Beni Halvorsen <strong>of</strong><br />

the School <strong>of</strong> Management at RMIT University Melbourne Australia. I am grateful to my colleagues<br />

who assisted with this project, Associate Pr<strong>of</strong> Daphne James- The University <strong>of</strong> Newcastle Australia,<br />

Ian Cloke <strong>and</strong> Rhys Martin – SOR United Kingdom. ISRRT CEO Dimitris Katsifarakis, <strong>and</strong> the ISRRT<br />

Board <strong>of</strong> Directors led by President Donna Newman were also instrumental to this project<br />

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Appendix 1: Survey Questions<br />

Oldenburg <strong>Burnout</strong> Inventory 44<br />

Using a Likert scale from 1 (Strongly Agree) - 4 (Strongly Disagree)<br />

1. I always find new <strong>and</strong> interesting aspects in my work.<br />

2. There are days when I feel tired before I arrive at work.<br />

3. It happens more <strong>and</strong> more <strong>of</strong>ten that I talk about my work in a negative way.<br />

4. After work, I tend to need more time than in the past in order to relax <strong>and</strong> feel better.<br />

5. I can tolerate the pressure <strong>of</strong> my work very well.<br />

6. Lately, I tend to think less at work <strong>and</strong> do my job almost mechanically.<br />

7. I find my work to be a positive challenge.<br />

8. During my work, I <strong>of</strong>ten feel emotionally drained.<br />

9. Over time, one can become dis-connected from this type <strong>of</strong> work.<br />

10. After working, I have enough energy for my leisure activities.<br />

11. Sometimes I feel sickened by my work tasks.<br />

12. After my work, I usually feel worn out <strong>and</strong> weary.<br />

13. This is the only type <strong>of</strong> work that I can imagine myself doing.<br />

14. Usually, I can manage the amount <strong>of</strong> my work well.<br />

15. I feel more <strong>and</strong> more engaged in my work.<br />

16. When I work, I usually feel energized.<br />

Disengagement items are 1, 3(R), 6(R), 7, 9(R), 11(R), 13 <strong>and</strong> 15<br />

Exhaustion items are 2(R), 4(R),5, 8(R),10, 12(R), 14 <strong>and</strong> 16<br />

Questions marked with an (R) indicates questions that have reversed scoring.<br />

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Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (We acknowledge the Human Factors <strong>and</strong><br />

Ergonomics Laboratory at Cornell University as the source <strong>of</strong> this instrument)<br />

Image taken from http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/Pub/AHquest/mmsdqall.pdf<br />

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Appendix 2: Countries Represented<br />

ISRRT<br />

Region<br />

Total<br />

Respondents<br />

Number <strong>of</strong><br />

Countries<br />

represented<br />

Country<br />

represented<br />

(employment)<br />

Africa 15 4 South Africa<br />

Raw<strong>and</strong>a<br />

Zimbabwe<br />

Tanzania<br />

Asia 35 6 Taiwan<br />

Philippines<br />

Indonesia<br />

Myanmar<br />

UAE<br />

Qatar<br />

Europe 53 5 Estonia<br />

Greece<br />

Finl<strong>and</strong><br />

Italy<br />

United Kingdom<br />

Engl<strong>and</strong><br />

Scotl<strong>and</strong><br />

Wales<br />

Oceania 30 2 Australia<br />

New Zeal<strong>and</strong><br />

South<br />

NIL NIL NIL<br />

America<br />

North<br />

NIL NIL NIL<br />

America<br />

Total 133** 17<br />

Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Role<br />

All countries contain radiographers,<br />

additional modalities listed next to<br />

the country<br />

Nuclear Medicine<br />

Sonographer / Mammographer<br />

Academic<br />

Sonographer<br />

Sonographer<br />

Sonographer<br />

Radiation Therapy<br />

Mammographer/ Radiation Therapy<br />

Radiation Therapy<br />

W H O / I S R R T R E P O R T O N M S K A N D B U R N O U T I N M R P s P a g e 26 | 27

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