Adult resuscitation: are we up to date? A study of staff resuscitation skills in the radiology department of a tertiary referral centre

• Published in: British journal of radiology 2009-08, Vol.82 (980), p.645-648
• Main Authors: RACHAPALLI, V, GOYAL, N, SMITH, R, HOURIHAN, M. D
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Biological and medical sciences; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - education; Clinical Competence; Educational Measurement; Employee Performance Appraisal; Humans; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Medical sciences; Personnel, Hospital - education; Radiology Department, Hospital; Surveys and Questionnaires; Wales
• ISSN: 0007-1285; 1748-880X
• DOI: 10.1259/bjr/40466685

This study was undertaken to determine the current level of resuscitation skills amongst staff in the Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital of Wales, and to identify ways of improving it. Questionnaires, which were modified according to expected level of expertise, were distributed to all staff members. 66% of the staff responded. 75% had formal resuscitation training, but the validation of this training had lapsed in 66%. 11% were aware of the location of all the resuscitation equipment in the department. Only 10% were aware of the new Resuscitation Council guidelines (changed in April 2006) regarding chest compression to ventilation ratio and hand position during chest compression. Only 57% of the medical staff and radiographers could identify and manage an anaphylactic reaction. Only 55% of medical staff could identify and manage a pneumothorax; and correctly measure and insert an oropharyngeal airway. 35% could use a defibrillator, but only 6% were aware of the changes to the guidelines for use of this equipment. Only one staff member was aware of the all the relevant changes in the guidelines. There is a shortfall of resuscitation skills in the radiology department and a responsibility on all radiology staff to update their resuscitation skills.