Assessing Medical Device Risks in Radiology Departments: A Critical Review

Abstract

Background: This study explores radiologists’ perceptions of risks associated with medical devices in radiology departments within hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Given the increasing use of advanced medical technologies and devices in the healthcare sector, it is important to understand how healthcare professionals, particularly radiologists, perceive and manage these risks.
Methods: A total of 257 radiologists from hospitals across Saudi Arabia participated in the study. Data were collected through a self-administered online questionnaire designed to assess their perceptions of risk management practices and the effectiveness of current risk control measures in radiology departments. The data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to identify key trends and insights regarding the management of risks associated with medical devices in radiology.
Results: The results indicate that while most radiologists perceive their department's risk management systems to be effective, several areas need improvement. Many participants reported that formal risk management systems and committees are in place to oversee the control of medical device risks, but there are challenges in terms of policy clarity and the overall effectiveness of MoH regulations. Furthermore, predictive risk models were found to be used more frequently for electrical and overwork risks, while radiation dose risks were addressed less frequently.
Conclusion: The study reveals a generally positive perception of risk management practices among radiologists in Saudi Arabia, but gaps remain in policy clarity, risk prediction practices, and implementation. The results suggest that improving communication, improving the effectiveness of risk management policies, and increasing training and awareness of healthcare professionals could help mitigate risks associated with medical devices in radiology departments. These improvements could lead to safer healthcare environments and better patient outcomes.