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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