Changing professional landscapes : the influence of education on the origin and evolution of radiography advanced practice

Nightingale, JM

Abstract

Throughout the twentieth century clear professional demarcations have existed between the professions of radiography and radiology in respect of the nature of practitioners' work and responsibilities. Yet, in the last two decades, an extended scope of radiography practice has begun to blur traditional professional boundaries. In particular, the concept of advanced practice in radiography has the potential to improve the quality and quantity of services available for the benefit of patients.

This thesis presents thirteen works published between 1998 and 2009, which collectively explore this changing professional landscape. Critical analysis of the contribution of the published works via extensive literature review, book reviews and citation / download analysis, demonstrated their utility and impact. The published works offer a distinctive and original contribution that supports the general development of radiography advanced practice, and in particular the emerging subspecialty of gastrointestinal imaging.

Thematic analysis of the published works reveals their contribution to knowledge and understanding of radiography advanced practice in respect to the following themes: the drivers and barriers to implementation; the consequences of advanced practice; dissemination of advanced practice both within the United Kingdom and overseas; the influence of education; the required knowledge base, teaching, learning and assessment.

The published works demonstrate that the concept of advanced practice has now been embraced within the UK radiography workforce, with increasing international interest in adopting practices pioneered by radiographers within the United Kingdom. The importance of reliable evidence for the success (or otherwise) of these emerging radiographer roles, coupled with the creation of relevant educational materials to support knowledge and skills development, is not to be underestimated if the contemporary professional landscape, to which this thesis contributes, is to significantly benefit patient care.

The published works are displayed in full within Volume 2 of the thesis. Each published work, listed in Table 1 of Volume 2, is accompanied by a one page summary sheet.

Citation

Nightingale, J. Changing professional landscapes : the influence of education on the origin and evolution of radiography advanced practice. (Thesis). Salford : University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Oct 3, 2012
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 3, 2012
• Award Date: Jan 1, 2009