Behavioural and environmental strategies implemented by radiographers to care for patients with neurocognitive disorders during medical imaging and therapeutic procedures

INTRODUCTION: As the population ages, radiographers are increasingly likely to care for patients with dementia, Alzheimer's disease and other neurocognitive disorders in medical imaging or radiation therapy departments. Since the cognitive and behavioural presentation of these patients can vary, radiographers must be prepared to adapt their approach. To investigate behavioural and environmental strategies used by radiographers when caring for patients with neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) during medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey comprising 18 questions was conducted among radiographers working across medical imaging and radiotherapy modalities. The questionnaire explored attitudes towards patients with NCDs, behavioural communication strategies, environmental adaptations, and institutional support measures. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of open-ended responses were performed. RESULTS: A total of 160 radiographers participated. Most respondents reported positive attitudes toward patients with NCDs, with 94% indicating no fear when interacting with this population. Behavioural communication strategies were frequently used, particularly maintaining eye contact (85%), using simple language (80%), and speaking slowly and clearly (76%). Caregivers were commonly involved to facilitate communication (81%). Despite this, 45% of radiographers reported frustration at not always knowing how to help effectively. Institutional environmental adaptations were limited, with most participants reporting no dementia-specific training (85%) or departmental protocols (78%). CONCLUSION: Radiographers frequently implement behavioural strategies to support patients with NCDs, but this relies on individual initiative rather than structured organisational support, which remains limited. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Radiographers should use clear, simple communication strategies with NCD patients, involve caregivers during imaging procedures, and develop dementia-specific training and departmental protocols.