Radiographer's Experience of Encountering Children Suspected of Being Abused

Child abuse is a global public health problem. It poses a threat to both physical and psychosocial well-being, resulting in serious consequences for the child, the family, and society. Radiographers are in a unique position to identify children at risk. In clinical practice, they may observe unusual interactions between children and their caregivers during radiographic procedures or identify suspicious injuries on radiographic images. A limited number of studies suggest that there is a lack of knowledge regarding radiographers’ experiences in situations where child maltreatment or abuse is suspected. The purpose of this study was to describe radiographers’ experiences when performing radiographic procedures on children who are suspected victims of physical abuse. This qualitative study was based on individual, semi-structured interviews with radiographers from radiology departments in central and southern Sweden. Inclusion criteria were radiographers with clinical experience in encounters involving children suspected of being physically abused. The results highlight several emotionally challenging aspects of these encounters, which often present ethical dilemmas. Radiographers reported complex interactions with both children and caregivers, placing significant demands on them to manage their emotions while simultaneously performing high-quality radiographic examinations. Participants described the brief nature of the radiographic encounter, contributing to uncertainty in identifying potential abuse. In conclusion, the findings indicate a need for more education and training for radiographers in this area, particularly during their undergraduate education, to increase their confidence and competence in recognizing and appropriately responding to suspected cases of child abuse. • Radiographers encounters with children and their families in procedures where abuse is suspected. • The study outlines ethical dilemmas that arise in those situations. • Significant need for increased knowledge and shared experiences among radiographers. • A considerable need for psychological support and opportunities for debriefing.