AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF THE PATIENTS PERCEPTION OF COMFORT AND ANXIETY LEVELS DURING A COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) PROCEDURE

Patient-centered care is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of quality in diagnostic imaging. Communication between radiographers and patients during computed tomography (CT) procedures plays a central role in shaping psychological responses, particularly in relation to comfort and anxiety. Despite its importance, limited evidence exists in the Nigerian context on how radiographer communication influences patient experience. This study therefore assessed the relationship between radiographer communication and patients’ psychological responses during CT examinations. This descriptive cross-sectional survey employed a structured questionnaire to collect data from 97 patients undergoing CT procedures. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0, employing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests of association. Findings were presented in frequency tables, percentages, and statistical outputs at a significance level of p < 0.05. The findings revealed that 63.9% of respondents were first-time CT patients, with the majority reporting heightened anxiety before, during, and after the procedure. While 79.3% acknowledged that radiographers provided clear procedural explanations, only 63.9% felt their anxiety was reduced by the communication received. Chi-square analysis showed no statistically significant association between radiographer communication and psychological responses of comfort and anxiety (χ² = 9.394, df = 1, p = 0.659). Although radiographer communication was effective in providing technical explanations, it was less effective in addressing patients’ emotional needs. This underscores a training gap in therapeutic communication and psychological support within radiography practice. The study recommends integrating patient psychology, therapeutic communication, and anxiety management modules into radiography curricula, alongside continuing professional development programs. Healthcare facilities should prioritize staff-patient interaction