Preliminary clinical evaluation (PCE): A transnational scoping review of current radiography practice

Anudjo, Messiah; Docherty, Sharon; Akudjedu, Theophilus

Abstract

Introduction
Image interpretation by radiographers has gained widespread recognition; however, current evidence provides very limited knowledge of the state and scope of practice transnationally. This study therefore sought to explore the current state and scope of preliminary clinical evaluation (PCE) practice to further understand international best practices in terms of policy, training and education, and practice competence of radiographers when carrying out PCE.
Method
A comprehensive literature search was completed via federated electronic databases (EBSCOhost and Web of Science) and professional radiography platforms for journal articles and policy or practice guidance documents, respectively. Data were charted from eligible studies following screening of articles in accordance with the predefined eligibility criteria. Themes were generated using inductive narrative analysis.
Results
Thirty-one peer reviewed articles and 5 radiography practice policy documents were identified. Over 60% of the included studies were carried out in the United Kingdom and Australia with about 60% focused on projectional radiography of the appendicular and axial skeletons. Three main themes were developed and included: scope of PCE practice and implementation; PCE proficiency indicators; factors influencing PCE participation and performance.
Conclusion
Gaps exist around defined scope of practice, standardisation, commenting format and compliance with policy. There is very limited evidence around PCE practice in cross-sectional imaging, thus, it is difficult to ascertain the current state and scope of practice internationally. There is a need for countries to develop standard commenting frameworks as well as enforcement of compliance. Additionally, more research is required to ascertain the competence and benefits of PCE practice within cross sectional imaging.

Citation

Anudjo, M., Docherty, S., & Akudjedu, T. (2025). Preliminary clinical evaluation (PCE): A transnational scoping review of current radiography practice. Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, 56(2), Article 101815. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmir.2024.101815

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Nov 19, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Dec 17, 2024
• Publication Date: 2025-03
• Deposit Date: Apr 14, 2025
• Journal: Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences
• Print ISSN: 1939-8654
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 56
• Issue: 2
• Article Number: 101815
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmir.2024.101815
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1196135
• Publisher URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1939865424005460?via%3Dihub
• Additional Information: This article is maintained by: Elsevier; Article Title: Preliminary clinical evaluation (PCE): A transnational scoping review of current radiography practice; Journal Title: Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences; CrossRef DOI link to publisher maintained version: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmir.2024.101815; Content Type: article; Copyright: © 2024 Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists.