Continuing Education in Pediatric Imaging: Benefits for Technologists in Improving Their Technical Performance

Hissa Mohammed1*

1Medical Radiography Instructor, University of Doha for Sciences and Technology.

*Corresponding Author:Hissa Mohammed, University of Doha for Sciences and Technology.Tel: 97444952222; Fax: 97444952222; E-mail: hmohammed6787@gmail.com

Citation: Hissa Mohammed (2023)Continuing Education in Pediatric Imaging: Benefits for Technologists in Improving Their Technical Performance. Cancer Prog Diagn 7: 139.

Received: April 11, 2023; Accepted: April 18, 2023; Published: April 30, 2023.

Introduction

Pediatric imaging is a specialized field that requires a high level of technical expertise and knowledge. Technologists who work in this field play a critical role in ensuring accurate and safe imaging for children, who require special considerations when it comes to radiation exposure and imaging protocols. As such, it is essential for technologists to stay up to date with the latest developments and best practices in pediatric imaging. Continuing education is one way that technologists can enhance their knowledge and skills, leading to improved technical performance and better patientoutcomes.

Benefits of Continuing Education

Continuing education in pediatric imaging can offer a number of benefits to technologists. For one, it can help them stay current with the latest imaging technologies and techniques, which can improve the quality of imaging and reduce radiation exposure. In addition, continuing education can provide technologists with the opportunity to learn from experts in the field and to network with colleagues, which can lead to new ideas and approaches to imaging.

Furthermore, continuing education can help technologists meet the evolving regulatory and accreditation requirements in pediatric imaging. For example, the American College of Radiology (ACR) has specific guidelines for pediatric imaging, including requirements for image quality, radiation dose, and the use of sedation. Continuing education can help technologists stay abreast of these guidelines and ensure that they are meeting them in their work.

Studies have shown that continuing education can lead to improved technical performance in pediatric imaging. A study published in the Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences found that technologists who participated in continuing education had significantly higher scores on a test of their knowledge of radiation safety and pediatric imaging protocols than those who did not participate in continuing education. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Radiology Nursing found that continuing education improved technologists' knowledge of pediatric imaging and their ability to communicate effectively with pediatric patients and their families.

Continuing Education Opportunities

There are many opportunities for technologists to participate in continuing education in pediatric imaging. The ACR offers a variety of courses and resources on pediatric imaging, including webinars, online modules, and in-person seminars. The Society for Pediatric Radiology also offers a range of educational resources, including online courses, case studies, and webinars.

In addition, many universities and colleges offer continuing education programs in pediatric imaging. These programs may include courses on pediatric anatomy and physiology, radiation safety, and imaging techniques specific to children. Technologists can also participate in conferences and symposiums focused on pediatric imaging, which can provide opportunities to learn from experts in the field and to network with colleagues.

Conclusion

Continuing education is an important aspect of pediatric imaging, as it can help technologists stay current with the latest developments and best practices in the field. By participating in continuing education, technologists can improve their technical performance, enhance patient outcomes, and meet evolving regulatory and accreditation requirements. There are many opportunities for technologists to participate in continuing education in pediatric imaging, including through the ACR, the Society for Pediatric Radiology, universities and colleges, and conferences and symposiums. Investing in continuing education can benefit both technologists and the pediatric patients they serve.

References

  1. American College of Radiology. (n.d.). Pediatric imaging. Retrieved from https://www.acr.org/Clinical- Resources/Radiology-Safety/Pediatric-Imaging
  2. Brennan P, O'Sullivan D (2015) The benefits of continuing professional development for radiographers: A literature review. Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences 46: 283-290.
  3. Housley D, O’Malley M (2016). Continuing education in pediatric radiology: What is the role of radiologic technologists? Journal of Radiology Nursing 35: 107-110.