Sonographers: What is stopping you from performing Ultrasound User QA?
Multi-Medix asked Ultrasound departments that very question:
The most common replies were:
- Lack of knowledge – in particular, fear of ultrasound physics
- Lack of resources – time & money
- Lack of need – planned annual maintenance covered all QA leaving little for users to do.
Ultrasound User QA Myths:
Myth No 1: We don’t have the time or money to Ultrasound User QA
User QA can takes less than 5 minutes per day yet can prevent faults that carry significant costs. The Multi-Medix QA System, “QA Protect” shows you how. A QA audit costs less than a planned maintenance visit. Compared to the cost of recalling patients back to be scanned again it’s a small investment to be compliant.
Myth No 2: A good knowledge of physics is required
“QA Protect” is easy to follow and requires little physics knowledge. Don’t just take our word for it. Read here, how hospital staff felt empowered following their User QA Training.
Myth No 3: Lack of need
Maintenance contracts should be independent of QA, and typically occur 6 monthly or annually.QA should be daily, weekly and monthly.
Ultrasound QA is a UK mandatory requirement and User QA a key part of a comprehensive Ultrasound QA System.
“Ultrasound QA Protect”: Making Ultrasound Quality Assurance routine for Sonographers
Multi-Medix has created “QA Protect”, enabling users to implement a standardised, reproduceable Ultrasound Quality Assurance programme, which is both flexible and modular,
- An affordable system that can be incorporated in a daily routine
- Training and support at the level required – one off or regular.
- Mix and match services: Choose what you need to fill in the gaps you may have.
In our experience, sonography requires a QA programme more than any other imaging modality. This is in part due to the sonographer/ ultrasound interface with the patient. Diagnostic Sonographers are highly skilled individuals who use their knowledge and probe manipulation to get the best possible image, this of course leaves room for error. Unlike other modalities which are almost semi-automated in comparison.
It is our mission to help the NHS standardise its approach to user QA and empower sonographers to deliver even greater levels of patient safety.