Nurses’ perspectives on the effectiveness of mobile X-ray services in RACFs. a qualitative study

There has been an increase in the use of mobile X-ray imaging services (MXIS) in residential aged care facilities (RACFs). Nurses, as key healthcare professionals, play a dynamic and critical role in a resident’s health, care and well-being journey that includes imaging. This exploratory study examines RACF nurses’ experiences and perspectives on the effectiveness of MXIS, with a focus on its contribution to continuity of care and resident wellbeing. This study employed a qualitative exploratory approach. Thirteen nurses were recruited through purposive sampling technique from five RACFs and one hospital site offering MXIS. The data were collected through in-person, semi-structured interviews that were transcribed verbatim. Initial coding was conducted, followed by a thematic analysis to identify key themes and their corresponding subthemes. Three key themes were identified: (1) before medical imaging assessment, (2) at the point of medical imaging referral decisions, and (3) medical imaging and outcomes. The RACF–MXIS journey spans from the initial imaging request to post-imaging follow-up. Nurses described navigating a complex, hierarchical referral system involving medical professionals while also participating in flexible, shared decision-making with family members and residents. Although MXIS was widely praised for improving access and enhancing resident outcomes, delays were frequently reported due to limited availability of general practitioners, scope-of-practice restrictions, and resource constraints. The implementation of MXIS in RACFs is shaped by complex clinical, ethical, and systemic factors, with nurses playing a central role in coordinating resident imaging pathways. Strengthening nursing authority through targeted MXIS training, collaborative frameworks, and equity-focused competencies can enhance responsiveness and resident-centred care. Policy and practice reforms that empower nursing leadership are essential to achieving timely, compassionate, and integrated diagnostic outcomes in aged care.