Barriers to Computed Tomography Radiation Risk Communication in the Emergency Department: A Qualitative Analysis of Patient and Physician Perspectives

Abstract

The normative view that radiation from diagnostic CT should be discussed in the ED is shared by patients and physicians, but is challenged by the lack of a structured method to communicate CT radiation risk to ED patients. Our analysis identifies promising interest among physicians and patients to use information guides and electronic order prompts as potential informational tools to overcome this barrier.