The Relationship Between CXR Imaging and Thoracic CT in Third Semester Pregnant Women Was Confirmed by the Reactive Antibody Rapid Test as an Intervening Variable with PCR Swab Results Before the Action/Delivery

Objective: This study explores the relationship between Chest X-Ray (CXR) imaging and Thoracic CT scans in third-trimester pregnant women, with the Reactive Antibody Rapid Test as an intervening variable, in relation to PCR swab results before delivery. Theoretical Framework: CXR and Thoracic CT are hypothesized to provide complementary diagnostic information in managing respiratory conditions during pregnancy, with the Reactive Antibody Rapid Test potentially influencing the accuracy of these modalities in predicting PCR outcomes. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional design with proportional purposive sampling was used. Sixty-two third-trimester pregnant women who underwent CXR, Thoracic CT, and PCR swab tests were included. Data from medical records were analyzed using Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) to assess the predictive power of CXR and CT imaging in conjunction with antibody test results. Results and Discussion: The study revealed that the performance of CXR and Thoracic CT imaging (x = 4.07) exceeded expectations (y = 2.73) when correlated with PCR swab results. The Reactive Antibody Rapid Test, however, showed mixed results, particularly when CXR findings were inconclusive. The study discusses the need for better integration of imaging and antibody test results to optimize pre-delivery care. Research Implications: The findings suggest that while CXR and Thoracic CT are valuable diagnostic tools for managing respiratory conditions in pregnant women, including antibody test results could improve diagnostic accuracy. Hospitals should refine protocols to better integrate these tests. Originality/Value: This study is one of the first to examine the relationship between CXR, Thoracic CT, and Reactive Antibody Rapid Test results in the context of PCR swab outcomes before delivery in third-trimester pregnant women.