Research
The profile of indications for radiography in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Universitas Academic Hospital, Bloemfontein
Abstract
Methods. A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted over a 1-month period (8 September - 8 October 2010). Information was obtained from the online Medi-Tech system used to request radiographs.
Results. A total of 469 radiographs were performed on 51 neonates. Twenty-seven male and 24 female neonates received 226 (48.2%) and 243 (51.8%) radiographs, respectively. The radiographs were classified into routine (91.9%) and urgent (8.1%). Chest radiographs were requested most frequently (59.5%). The most commonly recorded indication was prematurity (37.1%), followed by respiratory-related indications (28.5%). The highest number of radiographs performed on a single neonate was 46.
Conclusions. All radiographs were requested online, supporting the validity of the study with regard to the number of radiographs performed and their respective indications. A representative profile of indications was successfully obtained, which can assist with the implementation of further research on the stratification of radiation exposure according to indications for radiographs.
Authors' affiliations
V Govender, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
T Ntholeng, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
F Vawda, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
C O Larson, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
Cite this article
Article History
Date published: 2013-01-22
Article Views
Full text views: 5165
Comments on this article
*Read our policy for posting comments here