Surprise! Fatigue Affecting Diagnostic Accuracy in Radiology
Radiologists are tired and this affects diagnostic accuracy. Now if there were only more hours in the day...
Fatigue is a present problem among radiologists and affects diagnostic accuracy, according to a study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology.
Researchers from Canada performed a review to assess current literature regarding radiologist fatigue. They sought articles that discussed radiologist fatigue and radiologic error stemming from fatigue; experimental results measured as accuracy, error, or performance; and peer-reviewed publication. The researchers addressed the risk of bias by including both quantitative and qualitative studies.
A total of 27 articles, mainly primary research, were included. Common outcome measures included:
• Subjective self-reports
• Tests to measure eyestrain
• Reaction time
Recommendation from various groups included:
• Number of hours worked
• Ergonomic interventions
• Implementation of tools to measure and standardize fatigue and optimize workflow
• Education in appropriate viewing habits and breaks
One small study (seven participants) recommended radiologists should sleep well to improve their performance and overall well-being, despite the undeniable evidence that radiologists are fatigued.
The researchers concluded that fatigue is present in radiology and affects diagnostic accuracy.
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