Improving documentation of dental radiograph grading through a QR code-linked recording system in a paediatric dental department: A quality improvement project

Introduction:

Accurate grading of dental radiographs is required to ensure standards are met under ionising radiation regulations supporting clinical governance, audit and quality assurance. Within a paediatric dental department, radiographs were documented in patient records; however, completion of grading in the departmental radiograph logbook was variable. This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to improve accessibility and completeness of logbook recording through implementation of a QR code-linked digital recording system.

Methods:

Compliance with radiograph documentation was monitored weekly over a 36-week period and recorded as the percentage of radiographs entered into the logbook. During week 24, a QR code-linked digital recording system was introduced to facilitate real-time documentation and improve accessibility of records. Data collected before and after implementation were analysed using run chart methodology to evaluate changes in documentation compliance and process performance over time. Data access was restricted to the project team and the QR code was tested and scanned by staff to confirm accurate generation and reliable access to the intended form. The project received departmental approval from the Clinical and Radiography Leads, with local QI registration being undertaken.

Results:

Baseline data demonstrated substantial week-to-week variation in radiograph recording, with several weeks showing incomplete logbook entries. Following implementation of the QR code, analysis demonstrated variation with a greater proportion of observations above the baseline median. Although week to week variation persisted, the data suggests an improvement in the reliability of radiograph documentation following introduction of the digital recording.

Conclusion:

Implementation of a QR code-based radiograph recording system improved ease and consistency of radiograph documentation, with more frequent periods of high compliance. Variation suggests that the process has not yet reached full reliability. Ongoing QI work will focus on embedding the intervention into routine practice to achieve high compliance with radiographic governance standards.