title: Justification of radiographic examinations: What are the key issues?
abstract: Justification of radiographic examinations is the practice of evaluating requested radiological examinations to assess for clinical merit and appropriateness based on clinical notes and patient information. This implies that justification in radiography requires the evaluation of requested examinations, the justification of exposures being applied and determining whether patients fit the recommended criteria for the procedure. Medico-legal requirements by the professional registration body, the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA), identify justification as an advocated and obligatory practice for radiographers. Yet, justification remains an inconsistent practice implemented amongst Australian radiographers. This review aims to identify associated barriers inhibiting the consistent practice of justification and the hesitance by radiographers in practicing justification responsibilities. It also recommends a change in workplace culture which encourages radiographers to accept a more autonomous role that cultivates critical thinking, reflection and research-informed decision making as justification will ultimately benefit patients.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences (DMIRS), Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
authors.forename: Jason
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vom
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences (DMIRS), Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
authors.forename: Imelda
authors.identifier: http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1420-6053
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Williams
mesh_terms: D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D038622:Internationality; D011835:Radiation Protection; D011859:Radiography; D012926:Social Control, Formal; D012955:Societies, Medical / Q000592:standards
keywords: Australian radiographers; barriers; decision making; justification