Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on the practice of Nuclear Medicine: An interprofessional perspective

Date of Completion

2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science In Nuclear Medicine Technology

Keywords

Nuclear Medicine, COVID-19

Abstract

This study determined the impact of COVID-19 pandemic to the practice of nuclear medicine from an interprofessional perspective. The participants of this qualitative descriptive study are nuclear medicine technologists, nuclear medicine physicians, radiation protection officers, and radiopharmacists who have at least one year of experience before and at least six months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were gathered through recorded online interviews. The initial interview commenced with the grand tour question, “From your perspective as a (nuclear medicine technologist/nuclear medicine physician/radiation protection officer/radiopharmacist), what is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of nuclear medicine?” Follow-up interviews were done through e-mail and messaging platforms. Gathered data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Research findings showed that there was a web-like relationship of events brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Theme 1 presents these events and include the following: decreased supply of certain radiopharmaceuticals and fluctuating demands for the same; reduced number of patients that led to a temporary, but significant closure of the nuclear medicine department; and, the creation of health and safety protocols and guidelines. Themes 2 to 6 describe the interrelated impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the participants’ practice of nuclear medicine, which are the following: (1) redeployment of staff; (2) changes in workload; (3) reduction or postponement of emergency, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures; (4) deployment of enhanced telemedicine and online platforms; and, (5) adherence to health and safety protocols and guidelines.

First Advisor

Nenette A. de Leon

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