Design Directions for Reducing the Burnout for the Radiographer’s While Performing the CT Scan

As a part of the Human Factors II module of the Universal Design M.Des program, a case study examined the cognitive load on radiographers and patients during CT scans in high-volume government hospital environments. The study aimed to investigate how patient-related cognitive challenges during CT scanning contribute to radiographer burnout and identify areas where design interventions can improve both patient and radiographer experiences. The study utilized a mix of research methods and techniques, including structured interviews, user shadowing, NASA TLX, and focus group discussions. This research was conducted across 80 patients, 18 radiographers, and 21 doctors, including 12 radiologists, 3 neurologists, 4 orthopedists, and 2 cardiologists. Findings indicate that burnout among radiographers is significantly associated with the cognitive challenges faced by patients throughout the CT scanning process. In the pre-scan phase, patients endure a stressful and tedious booking system that heightens their anxiety. During scanning, many patients report increased fear, claustrophobia, and difficulty comprehending instructions, which can result in low scan quality and additional stress for radiographers. Post-scan delays in receiving results further exacerbate patient anxiety, complicating radiographer’s responsibilities. Moreover, the user interface of the scanning machines was identified as cumbersome, contributing to difficulties faced by radiographers. The study concludes that alleviating radiographer burnout requires addressing the cognitive challenges encountered by patients throughout the CT scanning process. Enhancing these aspects by providing design directions in government hospitals are essential for improving the efficiency of the CT scanning process and fostering better experiences for patients and radiographers.