Paediatric imaging: Sharing techniques and concepts focusing on family-centred care to improve patient experience

Abstract

Imaging paediatric patients can be exceptionally rewarding but also extremely challenging, even for those who have chosen to specialise by working in a paediatric facility. Challenges with communication, immobilisation and radiation safety are just some of the aspects that can make paediatric imaging difficult. The aim of this presentation is to provide practical tips and tricks that can be applied in any medical imaging service without the need for specialised equipment or resources. The concept of family-centred care and how medical imaging can align with this approach will also be a point of focus. Family-centred care recognises the vital role that families play in ensuring the health and wellbeing of paediatric patients and ensures the strengths and needs of all family members are considered during the patient's healthcare journey. Collated from years of experience in a specialised paediatric service, these techniques and concepts are shared in order to develop paediatric radiographic practice with the hope of improving patient outcomes-At the same time ensuring the experience of the paediatric patient and their family in any medical imaging department is a positive one.