Improving the Process of Second Trimester Singleton Morphology Sonography Examinations. A Survey of Australian and New Zealand Sonographers

ABSTRACT Introduction Second trimester morphology scans (singleton pregnancy) are routine sonography scans. We have previously reported the perception of Australasian sonographers on the current scanning appointment times and their effect on the quality of the healthcare service provided. While this survey identified that most respondents were satisfied with current scanning times for a standard appointment, over half of the respondents for second trimester morphology scans reported that their current appointment times potentially affected the quality of the scan. As appointment times are only one part of the clinic appointment process and are affected by many other aspects of the appointment procedure, any attempt to review appointment times should take a systems‐based approach. Methods A single survey questionnaire was used to collect the perceptions of sonographers who completed second trimester morphology sonography scans (singleton pregnancy) about what factors made these examinations challenging and how these appointments can be improved. Results Responses were received from 697 sonographers. A range of factors that made an appointment challenging were presented and further classified into 5 main themes, based on the cause and the ability to modify the factor: both modifiable and non‐modifiable patient factors, modifiable and non‐modifiable scan‐related factors, and clinic‐related factors. Suggestions for improving scan times including timetabling, processes, and equipment. Conclusion This study provides a framework for a revaluation of the process for scheduling current scanning appointment times for second trimester singleton morphology scans from the perspective of the end‐users with the aim of improving health care quality and the quality of work life for sonographers.