Ordering of computed tomography scans for head and cervical spine: a qualitative study exploring influences on doctors' decision-making.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ordering of computed tomography (CT) scans needs to consideration of diagnostic utility as well as resource utilisation and radiation exposure. Several factors influence ordering decisions, including evidence-based clinical decision support tools to rule out serious disease. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore factors influencing Emergency Department (ED) doctors' decisions to order CT of the head or cervical spine.

Methods

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposively selected ED doctors from two affiliated public hospitals. An interview tool with 10 questions, including three hypothetical scenarios, was developed and validated to guide discussions. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and compared with field no

SUBMITTER: Hattingh HL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9206095 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature