Experiences and Perceptions of Nuclear Medicine Technologists in the Assessment of Myocardial Perfusion Image Quality

Abstract

Nuclear medicine technologists (NMTs) are experts in the acquisition of myocardial perfusion (MP) images, in addition to the many other types of images acquired in nuclear medicine departments. NMTs are expected to ensure that images are of optimal quality in order to facilitate accurate interpretation by nuclear medicine physicians (NMPs). However, ensuring optimal image quality is a shared responsibility between NMTs and NMPs. The shared responsibilities have resulted in inconsistences in the assessment of MP image quality among NMTs in different departments. Little is known about the perceptions and experiences of NMTs on the assessment of MP image quality. Therefore, the focus of this research study was NMTs. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore and describe the perceptions and experiences of NMTs on the assessment of MP image quality. The research question was, “How do NMTs perform the responsibility of ensuring MP image quality?” Methods: The study followed a qualitative explorative approach using focus groups as a means of collecting data. Nineteen NMTs from 4 academic hospitals were purposefully selected to participate. A semistructured questionnaire was used to conduct the focus groups. The collected data were managed using a computer-aided qualitative data analysis software program to formulate codes, categories, and themes. Results: Two overarching themes emerged from the data: the management of MP images, and the resources required to support NMTs. NMTs differed in their management of MP images because of the prevailing circumstances in their respective departments. In addition, the results suggested that NMTs' level of involvement in the assessment of MP image quality was influenced by the availability of resources required for processing and assessing image quality. Conclusion: Despite the shared responsibility in the assessment of MP image quality with NMPs, NMTs considered themselves as playing a major role. However, resources to facilitate the assessment of image quality are considered necessary and should be available to support NMTs in submitting images of optimal quality for interpretation.