THE IMPORTANCE OF

OPTIMAL PATIENT POSITIONING

IN RADIOLOGY

Optimal patient positioning is crucial for a successful radiological examination for many reasons. As a small cog in the "overall radiology system", it has a direct influence on image quality and patient satisfaction, among other things, and allows smooth and standardised workflows to be implemented. Correct positioning can reduce the number of necessary repeat sequences and examinations and help to minimise unnecessary waiting times for patients.
 
Furthermore, appropriate accessories contribute to improved hygiene by enabling easy, quick and conscientious cleaning and disinfection.  
Optimal patient positioning using appropriate tools is a simple way for implementing efficient, effective and thus economical workflows for high-quality radiological examinations.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PERFECTLY HYGIENIC PATIENT POSITIONING SOLUTIONS IN RADIOLOGY

PERFECTLY HYGIENIC

In radiology, accurate diagnosis is only possible through precise positioning of the patient. This can become a problem if damaged, unclean or unhygienic aids are used for positioning, as this can lead to the transfer of germs and bacteria from patient to patient or patient to healthcare professional.  

In radiology, hygienic positioning aids help to minimise the risk of cross-contamination. By thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting positioning solutions, radiologists and medical staff can reduce the transmission of germs and thus protect the health of patients. It is therefore important that radiology departments have appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure that positioning aids are in a hygienic condition and that staff are appropriately trained.

HYGIENIC SOLUTIONS

The radiology department is under increasing pressure due to rising patient throughput and constantly growing requirements from patients and referring doctors. In this context, aspects such as ease of use, impeccable hygiene and the impact on patient comfort are becoming even more important than ever before. 

This case study sheds light on the influence of perfectly hygienic belt systems in radiology and shows which advantages can result from the use of such systems.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF OPTIMAL PATIENT POSITIONING FOR IMPROVED IMAGE QUALITY IN RADIOLOGY

IMPROVED IMAGE QUALITY

Optimal patient positioning allows a patient to remain still throughout the examination and thus minimises the occurrence of movement artefacts. These artefacts can manifest as ghosting, blurring or ringing artefacts on the images and can severely affect image quality, compromising diagnostic confidence or necessitating repeat measurements. 

Optimal positioning also increases patient comfort and makes it easier for the patient to lie still in the same position for a longer period of time. This increases the likelihood that examinations can be successfully completed and optimal results obtained. 

While many different imaging sequences are now faster and more effective with motion correction software and also offer some degree of motion resistance, optimal patient positioning remains an excellent approach to achieving high quality examination results.

CASE STUDY: OPTIMAL PATIENT POSITIONING

Head movements during fMRI examinations can lead to significant artefacts and misdiagnosis. This white paper investigates the effectiveness of the Pearltec positioning system compared to conventional foams for head fixation during galvanic vestibular stimulation. The results show that the Pearltec system can almost completely suppress movements in all three planes and leads to significantly better image quality and signal resolution.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF OPTIMAL PATIENT POSITIONING FOR A POSITIVE PATIENT EXPERIENCE

POSITIVE PATIENT EXPERIENCE

Radiological examinations are often accompanied by worry, stress and anxiety for patients. An unfamiliar environment, lying in a narrow "tunnel" and concerns about the diagnosis contribute to a general sense of discomfort and uncertainty. 

Optimal patient positioning and associated communication help to improve the patient experience and have a direct impact on patient satisfaction.  

If the patient understands why a certain position is needed and how it helps to get a better diagnosis, this can lead to better understanding and better compliance.  

Optimal patient positioning means comfort, safety and well-being for the patient and increases confidence in the examination and the healthcare professional.

 

Positive patient experience

Optimal patient positioning has a huge impact on patient's satisfaction and experience during a radiology examinations. It involves preparing the patient for the imaging examination to perfectly visualize the required anatomy and pathology while ensuring patient safety and comfort. 

In this blog, Dr Christina Malamateniou explains how optimal positioning can improve patient experience and satisfaction in radiology.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF OPTIMAL PATIENT POSITIONING ON Economic Aspects IN RADIOLOGY

ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY

Cost-effectiveness is an increasingly important factor in the healthcare system in general and in radiology in particular.  Optimal patient positioning using the right tools influences cost-effectiveness in many ways:  

  • Direct cost savings through the choice of durable materials and the reduction of the variety of positioning aids. 
  • Time savings through increased efficiency in work processes through simplification and standardisation 
  • Reduction and avoidance of unnecessary costs due to equipment failures, repeat examinations and delays 

There are various technologies and solutions that are used to position patients. Therefore, it is important that both costs and benefits of each solution are carefully evaluated to ensure optimal outcomes.

ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY

Improve hygiene standards in a radiology department economically and sustainably?  Clear cleaning and disinfection guidelines and their conscientious implementation are often not enough. Even the smallest damage to the surface of foam positioning aids and patient mattresses represent a potential risk and is predestined for the development of germs. This necessitates regular replacement of these damaged aids, which is associated with considerable costs.  

Adequate aids, such as the CT Table Cover, help to overcome these challenges effectively and economically.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF OPTIMAL PATIENT POSITIONING FOR MORE SUSTAINABILITY IN RADIOLOGY

SUSTAINABILITY

The use of adequate positioning aids in radiology not only has positive effects on diagnostic quality, but also on productivity and environmental balance. One aspect here, for example, is the use of reusable and durable products that are not only hygienic but also resource-saving. The use of high-quality and durable products can help reduce environmental impact by minimising waste and conserving resources. 

A conscious decision for high-quality, durable and reusable products in radiology can thus offer both economic and ecological advantages.

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