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Embedding consultant radiographer roles within radiology departments: A framework for success
Nightingale, J. Hardy, Maryann L.
Nightingale, J.
Hardy, Maryann L.
Publication Date
2018-11
End of Embargo
Supervisor
Rights
© 2018 The College of Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduced in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy. This manuscript version is made available under the CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license.
Peer-Reviewed
Yes
Open Access status
openAccess
Accepted for publication
2018-06-18
Institution
Department
Awarded
Embargo end date
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Additional title
Abstract
Objectives: Many organisations struggle to clearly differentiate the radiographer consultant role
from advanced or specialist practice, with newly appointed consultant practitioners often illprepared
for working at this level. This article discusses the design, implementation and validation of
an outcomes framework for benchmarking competencies for trainee or new-in-post consultant
radiographers.
Methods: Five experienced radiographers from different clinical specialisms were seconded to a
twelve month consultant trainee post, guided by a locally-devised outcomes framework. A
longitudinal qualitative study explored, from the radiographers' perspective, the impact of the
outcomes framework on the transition to consultant practice and beyond. Data collection included
semi-structured interviews (months 1, 6 and 12), validation via a focus group (month 18) and a
group interview (5 years).
Results: Early interactions with framework objectives were mechanistic, but as participants better
understood the role more creative approaches emerged. Despite diverse clinical expertise, the
framework facilitated parity between participants, promoting transparency and credibility which
was important in how the consultant role was perceived. All participants achieved all framework
outcomes and were subsequently appointed to substantive consultant radiographer positions.
Conclusion This outcomes framework facilitates experienced radiographers to successfully
transition into consultant radiographers, enabling them to meet multiple non-clinical targets while
continuing to work effectively within a changing clinical environment. It is the first validated
benchmarking tool designed to support the transition to radiographer consultant practice.
Adoption of the tool will provide a standardised measure of consultant radiographer outcomes that
will promote inter-organisational transferability hitherto unseen in the UK.
Version
Accepted manuscript
Citation
Nightingale J, Hardy ML and Snaith B (2018) Embedding consultant radiographer roles within radiology departments: A framework for success. Radiography. 24(4): 289-297.
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Type
Article