1 Wellbeing support for radiographers undertaking suspected physical abuse (SPA). (23rd February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eaton, Jessica; Stylianou, Michael; Simcock, Ian; Arthurs, Owen
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 108(2023)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A1
• Page End: A1
• Publication Date: 2023-02-23
• Subjects: Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-gosh.1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-9888

Abstract

Abstract : Approximately 250, 000 children per year in the UK are reported to have been victims of physical abuse (Office for National Statistics, 2020). The Radiology Department at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) provides a specialist imaging examination for children who are suspected of experiencing Suspected Physical Abuse (SPA). A series of imaging examinations are undertaken by Radiographers to assess for signs which may be indicative of abuse. Radiology plays a pivotal role in providing accurate and timely diagnoses and contributes to providing safeguarding for children. However, this type of examination can be extremely distressing experience for Radiographers to complete. At present, there is no formal support in the UK available to Radiology staff undergoing this examination. We need to understand the impact that these investigations have on Radiographers and explore whether any support mechanisms can be put into place to improve the mental wellbeing of practitioners working in this challenging field. In January 2022, I led a focus group consisting of five GOSH Radiographers to identify the issues they faced and the support mechanisms that would help when undertaking this work. All participants identified the challenging work conditions. Peer support was identified as their key coping mechanism, and none reported having received any formal mental health support or direct training from their employers. Participants provided descriptions of burnout, trauma and anxiety related to their work. Learning outcomes from this focus group identified the importance of prioritising and protecting the mental health and wellbeing of radiographers. It is essential that support frameworks are available to staff undertaking this important and sensitive work. The outcomes of the focus groups will be discussed in detail, including the importance of peer support to prevent burnout and the reduce the trauma and anxiety related to this work.