Diagnostic radiography students’ neonatal mobile X-ray imaging infection prevention and control practices

Introduction: Neonates represent a unique population with complex medical needs. Diagnostic medical imaging is crucial for diagnosing and treating their conditions, often utilising mobile imaging equipment. A key aspect of providing mobile X-ray imaging for neonates is infection prevention and control (IPC). This study investigated the IPC practices of diagnostic radiography students conducting mobile X-ray imaging in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Method: This quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study employed purposive sampling and used an online questionnaire to collect data from diagnostic radiography students at a higher education institution in Gauteng, South Africa. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The survey had a response rate of 51.1% (n=141, N=276), primarily from the second-year cohort (44.7%). Most participants (n=132; 93.6%) had access to dedicated NICU and IPC policies, but only 63.1% (n=89) were familiar with the IPC protocols. The majority of participants (n=134; 95%) recognised the importance of limiting cross-contamination in the NICU. Participants rated their IPC practices as average (n=60; 49.6%) and high (n=64; 45.4%). More reported cleaning the mobile X-ray machine (n=89; 63%) and washing hands (n=114; 81%) before examinations rather than after, with image receptors (n=106; 75%) mostly cleaned after the examination. Conclusion: The IPC practices of diagnostic radiography students during mobile X-ray imaging in the NICU were inconsistent. Most students understood the importance of IPC; however, inconsistencies in cleaning mobile X-ray machines, image receptors and radiographic markers were reported. It is necessary to explore the reasons for these divergent IPC practices to develop strategies to enhance IPC practice compliance.