Development of an Immobilization Device for Image Receptor Stabilization to Enhance Chest Radiographic Image Quality
Development of an Image Receptor Immobilization Device to Improve Chest Radiographic Image Quality
Keywords:
: Image receptor holding device, Chest radiography, Radiographic image quality, Repeat radiograph, Patient positioningAbstract
Chest radiography is a fundamental diagnostic imaging modality widely used for evaluating respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. However, performing chest radiography in patients who are unable to stand—such as older adults, debilitated patients, or those in intensive care units—often presents challenges related to patient positioning and image receptor stability. These limitations frequently lead to positioning errors, motion artifacts, and the presence of foreign objects within the image, all of which contribute to repeat radiographs, unnecessary radiation exposure, and increased workload for radiology personnel. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a prototype image receptor holding device designed for use in community hospitals. A comparative study was conducted in 64 patients, divided into a control group (before implementation, n = 32) and an experimental group (after implementation, n = 32). Data were collected from seated chest radiographic examinations using three research tools: a repeat radiograph record form, a radiographic image quality assessment form (covering five dimensions), and a staff satisfaction questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and the Independent t-test were used for analysis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.The results demonstrated that the experimental group using the holding device had a repeat rate of 0.00%, reduced from 15.62% in the control group, with no repeated images caused by positioning errors, motion artifacts, or exposure inaccuracies. Radiographic image quality significantly improved across all dimensions in the experimental group, achieving a perfect score of 5.00 ± 0.00, compared with 4.25–4.41 in the control group. Additionally, staff satisfaction toward the device was rated at the highest level (mean 4.75 ± 0.64). This study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Public Health Office (Approval No. SSJ.UB 06.011). All participants provided informed consent prior to data collection. In conclusion, the developed image receptor holding device effectively improves patient positioning stability, reduces artifacts, enhances radiographic image quality, and minimizes repeat radiographs and staff workload. The device is suitable for implementation in community hospitals and healthcare facilities serving patients with limited mobility or those unable to stand.
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