Enhancing Patient Safety In Diagnostic Imaging Through Interdisciplinary Collaboration: A Systematic Review Of Nursing And Radiology Roles In Saudi Hospitals

Abstract

Patient safety in diagnostic imaging represents a critical healthcare priority, particularly as imaging modality utilization expands globally and within Saudi Arabia's rapidly modernizing healthcare infrastructure. This systematic review examines interdisciplinary collaboration between nursing and radiology professionals as a mechanism for enhancing patient safety across diagnostic imaging procedures. A comprehensive search of PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Embase databases identified 1,247 potentially relevant articles published between January 2010 and December 2025, of which 56 met inclusion criteria for systematic analysis. Findings reveal that patient safety incidents in diagnostic imaging encompass multiple domains including patient identification errors, contrast media reactions, radiation safety concerns, infection control breaches, patient falls, and equipment-related adverse events. Effective interdisciplinary collaboration models demonstrate significant reductions in adverse events through structured communication protocols, clearly delineated role definitions, standardized safety checklists, shared training initiatives, and collaborative quality improvement processes. Nursing contributions to imaging safety include comprehensive patient assessment prior to procedures, patient education and anxiety management, medication administration and monitoring, infection prevention practices, and patient advocacy. Radiology technologist responsibilities encompass technical procedure optimization, radiation dose management, equipment safety verification, and immediate adverse event recognition. Barriers to effective collaboration identified across studies include professional role ambiguity, inadequate communication infrastructure, insufficient interdisciplinary training, time constraints within high-volume imaging departments, and organizational cultures not prioritizing collaborative practice. Saudi-specific considerations include rapid healthcare expansion outpacing workforce development, cultural factors influencing communication patterns, and variability in interdisciplinary training integration across educational programs. Evidence-based recommendations emphasize implementation of standardized handover protocols adapted from surgical safety models, integration of nursing assessment into imaging workflow design, development of competency-based interdisciplinary training curricula, establishment of collaborative safety reporting systems, and organizational policy support for protected communication time.