UNIBEN RADIOGRAPHY

Clinical placements form a very integral component of radiography education; it is the link between theoretical knowledge and practical application. In recent years, the advancement in imaging technology such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and fluoroscopy amongst many others have required a higher level of technical proficiency from radiographers. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of clinical placement duration on University of Benin radiography students’ proficiency in carrying out advanced imaging modalities. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 300lv-500lv Radiography student of the university of Benin who had gone through clinical posting through a structured and validated questionnaire assessing socio-demographics, clinical placement duration, and student’s proficiency in performing advanced imaging modalities. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (Chi-square) with a level of significance set at p< 0.05. A total of 208 radiography students participated inthe study, findings revealed a positive and statistically significant correlation between longer clinical placement duration and higher reported proficiency in CT and MRI (p<0.05), while the association was weaker for fluoroscopy and mammography. Students with ≥12 weeks cumulative posting in advanced imaging units demonstrated significantly higher confidence and task-execution ability compared to those with shorter exposure. Insufficient hands-on opportunity, equipment downtime and high patient load limiting student participation were reported as major constraints to skill acquisition. The study concludes that the duration and frequency of clinical placement have a significant impact on radiography students’ proficiency in performing advanced imaging procedures.