A Conceptual Framework for Enhancing Patient Safety in Diagnostic Radiography

Thesis Abstract

Diagnostic radiography plays a critical role in modern healthcare delivery; however, patient safety concerns arising from radiation overexposure, misadministration, and procedural errors remain significant challenges. Despite existing safety guidelines and protocols, incidents linked to lapses in safety practices continue to occur, often due to systemic vulnerabilities and human factors. This study aims to develop a comprehensive conceptual framework to enhance patient safety within diagnostic radiography departments by integrating organizational, technological, and human elements influencing safety outcomes. The specific objectives are to identify key factors impacting patient safety, explore healthcare professionals' perceptions of safety practices, and synthesize these insights into a coherent theoretical model that can guide policy and practice improvements. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques. The qualitative phase involves semi-structured interviews with 30 radiographers, radiology technologists, and department managers, selected through purposive sampling from five radiography centers. Thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke's approach, is used to identify recurring themes related to safety challenges, organizational culture, and technological barriers. Concurrently, the quantitative phase employs a cross-sectional survey administered to 250 radiography practitioners, selected via stratified random sampling across the same centers. Data gathered through a structured questionnaire are analyzed using descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis to determine the relative influence of identified factors on safety outcomes. The study anticipates that findings will reveal critical factors such as staff training adequacy, technological integration, communication effectiveness, and organizational safety climate as significant determinants of patient safety. It is expected that regression analysis will demonstrate that safety culture and technological proficiency significantly predict adherence to safety protocols, while thematic analysis will highlight contextual factors influencing safety behaviors. These insights will inform the development of a conceptual framework comprising key domains—staff competence, safety culture, communication channels, and technological support—interconnected to optimize safety practices. The contribution of this research to knowledge resides in its integrative model that elucidates the dynamic interplay of organizational, human, and technological factors impacting patient safety in diagnostic radiography. By systematically synthesizing empirical evidence from healthcare practitioners and aligning it with relevant safety theories, including Reason's Swiss Cheese Model and the Safety Culture Model, the framework offers a theoretically grounded tool for assessing and improving safety practices. The framework serves as a foundation for designing targeted interventions, training programs, and policy guidelines aimed at reducing incident rates and fostering a proactive safety culture within radiography departments. The main conclusion indicates that a multifaceted, theory-informed approach is essential for effective safety enhancement in diagnostic radiography. The study recommends implementing continuous safety training, fostering open communication environments, leveraging technological advancements, and conducting regular safety audits. Additionally, it advocates for institutionalizing the conceptual framework as part of routine safety management systems and encourages further longitudinal research to evaluate its practical impact and scalability across diverse healthcare settings. Overall, this research provides a robust, evidence-based foundation for advancing patient safety in diagnostic radiography, aligning with contemporary healthcare quality improvement imperatives.