Piloting a paediatric nuclear medicine colouring-in book in Australia and New Zealand.
Date
2025
Authors
Mangelsen, R.J.
Holman, R.R.
Guerrero, K.
Jones, K.L.
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Journal article
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Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, 2025; 56(5):101919-101919
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Well-informed paediatric patients experience reduced anxiety and improved outcomes during medical procedures. While age-appropriate education materials exist for alternate medical imaging modalities, only two resources exist globally for nuclear medicine. This student-led project aimed to develop a nuclear medicine colouring-in book for children aged 7-10 years, and to evaluate its impact from the nuclear medicine technologist (NMT) perspective. METHODS: A colouring-in book was developed following an extensive literature search and personal communication, with NMTs in the field. A total of 1000 colour A5 books were printed and distributed to nuclear medicine departments in Australia (n=8) and New Zealand (n=3), based on geographical location and paediatric workload. Two-months after distribution, NMTs were surveyed via Microsoft Forms to assess the book's application and utility with five Likert scale, and two short-answer, questions. RESULTS: Gender, race, rural accessibility, and age were identified as important factors for paediatric health education and incorporated in the colouring-in book. Survey responses were received from 8 of the 11 departments, yielding a response rate of 73%. Of respondents, 75% (n=6) found the book "quite valuable" for paediatric patients, and "quite beneficial" for parents/caregivers. Additionally, 75% (n=6) stated the book was most helpful for patients aged 4 to 6 years, with reported benefits including engagement, distraction, and serving as an icebreaker activity. CONCLUSIONS: This pilot project was a worthwhile experience for patients, departments, and students, yielding positive feedback upon departmental application. Further data is required to evaluate the patient and caregiver experience.
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Copyright 2025 Elsevier
Access Condition Notes: Accepted manuscript available after 1 July 2026