The quality of care received by patients during general X-ray procedures at a public hospital in Namibia: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Patient care has been the major focus of most healthcare discussions, as a way to reinforce strategies that ensure care is of benefit to patients. Understanding the interactions between the patient and radiographer unlocks various opportunities to deliver improved patient care. The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of care received by patients and determine its contributing factors as perceived by patients during the general X-ray examinations. The study used a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 66 purposefully sampled participants, using a questionnaire. The quality of care for different phases of the radiographic procedures was analysed and the relationships between dependent and independent variables, as well as identified contributing factors, were measured using SPSS version 25. The quality of care rendered to patients in the radiography department before the commencement of the procedure, during the procedure and after the procedure was rated as good, by 77.3%, 81.8% and 68.2%, of the patients respectively. The overall quality of care received by the patients was rated as high, by 89.4% of the patients. Poor communication, overcrowded rooms, radiographers and receptionists´ attitudes were factors highlighted by patients as affecting the quality of care they received. Most patients rated highly the quality of care rendered during radiographic procedures, with a few areas reported as negatively affecting this care. Continuous professional development on communication and patient-centred care for radiographers is recommended to improve and maintain the quality of care rendered to patients.