Image Rejection Analysis

Aim

• analyse the image rejection rate within the SCUH Medical Imaging Department to assess if the rejection rate is in line with national standards
• determine trends and commonalities in rejection reasons to establish departmental learning opportunities and assist with improving department performance and reducing patient radiation dose

Outcomes

• provide learning opportunities for the department in areas where image rejection rates are high to improve department practice
• improve department awareness regarding image rejection rates

Background

A rejected image in radiography is an un-diagnostic image that lacks the necessary information to aid clinical diagnosis due to its poor quality.

A core element of a radiographer's role is the decision on whether an image is sufficient for diagnosis, or if a repeat examination is needed.

Image reject analysis (RA) is a quality control process and an important component of quality assurance programmes to measure the efficiency of radiology departments by determining the rates and reasons for rejected images.

Prior to this project SCUH had no data that demonstrated the department rejection rates, thus there was limited awareness within the department of any improvements that can be made.

Methods

The image rejection data will be displayed in a table format in the respective areas within the department.

Discussion

It is planned to evaluate the rejection rates as a percentage of the total number of images every month.

Data trends that are identified will be further investigated and education will be provided to the department to improve rejection rates for those areas.

References

Onlinelibrary.wiley.com