Knowledge and Preparedness of Handling Pediatric Radiography Patients among Radiologic Technology Interns

Background: Pediatric radiography can be improved through child-centered approaches such as play, simple explanations, supportive communication, and child-friendly environments; as suggested that immobilization should be avoided, these strategies help reduce fear, improve cooperation, and make imaging procedures more effective and safer for children. Aim: This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge and preparedness in handling pediatric radiography patients among Radiologic Technology interns and to examine the relationship between these variables. Study Design: A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private tertiary institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, during the second semester of the Academic Year 2025-2026. Methodology: A total of 109 senior Radiologic Technology interns participated in the study, selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured online questionnaire consisting of a 20-item knowledge test and a 15-item preparedness scale. Content validity was established through expert evaluation, and reliability testing showed acceptable to excellent internal consistency. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman Rank-Order Correlation. Results: The findings revealed that Radiologic Technology interns demonstrated an overall average level of knowledge and preparedness in handling pediatric radiography patients. The level of knowledge was rated as average, with a mean score of 15.65 (SD = 1.0661) out of 20, showing a strong understanding of fundamental principles such as radiation sensitivity, exposure adjustments, and patient safety practices. However, gaps were identified in critical areas, including the ALARA principle, patient identification protocols, and the appropriate use of specialized pediatric equipment, indicating weakness in critical safety-related concepts. Similarly, preparedness was rated as average, with a mean score of 3.64 (SD = 0.603) out of 5. Interns reported high confidence in interacting with parents or guardians in performing technical and procedural tasks, but reported lower confidence in communicating directly with pediatric patients, particularly in explaining medical conditions and handling sensitive concerns. Inferential analysis revealed no significant relationship between knowledge and preparedness (rs = 0.048, p = 0.617), suggesting that higher theoretical knowledge does not necessarily translate into greater perceived readiness in clinical practice. Conclusion: The study concludes that preparedness in handling pediatric radiography patients among radiologic technology interns is influenced more by clinical exposure, hands-on experience, and communication skills than by theoretical knowledge alone. These findings emphasize the need to strengthen experiential learning, particularly in pediatric communication, radiation safety practices, and patient-centered care, to enhance the overall clinical readiness of interns.