Following research that shows MRI safety incidents are under-reported, Barbara Nugent, the project lead for the National Education for Scotland MRI safety project, is compiling a global database of adverse events to benefit the MRI community – and she wants MRI radiographers to help compile it.
“We want to share information so we can all learn from these incidents,” she says.
“There is substantial support for standardised MRI safety education to improve safe practice. To deliver comprehensive training in workplaces is not practical but an online course is being developed.”
Content will be based on current knowledge of MRI system-wide hazards and recommended guidance. The aim of the first course is to develop a free ‘gold standard’ safety resource for radiographers, radiologists, physicists, and other clinical staff who have responsibility for patients in MRI.
With the support of a range of professional bodies and organisations including the SCoR, the British Association of MR Radiographers (BAMRR), IPEM, BIR and the RCR, a pilot module is being produced with e-Learning for Healthcare (e-LfH).
“There is a lack of awareness among NHS policymakers about the extent and impact of MRI-related safety problems and a consequent lack of action,” Barbara says.
“The database of adverse events will record all influences which affect MRI safety: human factors, department design, workflow and cultural effects.”
Barbara is appealing for help from the MRI community.
“We would appreciate the help of SoR members,” she says. “We need papers, links or media reports of any incidents. These can be local, regional or global, even if you believe it likely that people may know about it already.”
Barbara emphasises that NES is subject to the same confidentiality issues as the rest of the NHS and data will be protected.
“All responses will be treated in strict confidence and you will not be identified,” she says.
Alex Lipton, the Society’s professional officer for MRI, says, “The MRI community is aware that there is significant under reporting of MR related safety incidents.
“The database will provide evidence that incidents are occurring and will contribute to the improved education of the MRI workforce.”
Click here to email Paul Watson at NES with any information you have about incidents.
Click here if you have questions for Barbara Nugent.