Development of a questionnaire to explore Swedish radiographers’ need for additional post-registration knowledge in their profession
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7577/radopen.6222Keywords:
Radiography, radiographer, interview, professional education, continuing education, universityAbstract
Introduction: The rapid and continuous technology development in radiology departments is seen globally. Swedish radiographers experience high workloads and difficulties in retaining colleagues and have few opportunities to develop the profession. It is therefore important to gain insight into radiographers’ own perspectives of this concern for professional development in a national survey; however, the topic seems sparsely investigated. The aim of this pilot study was firstly to explore Swedish radiographers’ experienced need for additional post-registration knowledge in their profession and opportunities for clinical advancement based on their everyday work, and secondly to generate items for a questionnaire.
Methods: Eight radiographers with diverse clinical experiences were interviewed. The interviews were recorded, then transcribed verbatim and analyzed using manifest content analysis. The empirical data was used for formulating questionnaire items.
Results: Three categories were found in this pilot study; Need to deepen previously learned knowledge; Need for mandatory educational program regulated by the law; Organization of education and clinical implementation of further knowledge
Ten items were generated from empirical data on a 10-point Likert scale which was pilot tested. Open-ended questions were formulated for each item, and demographic questions were added to obtain background data.
Conclusion: The results and opinions in the selected informants show a probable need for and wish of further education which could be done on a national scale through a quantitative questionnaire study, of which this study is the basis for.
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