Incompetent radiographer suspended
Josphat Mwilaria, a senior II radiographer, has been suspended for a year by the HPC. The investigation into his fitness to practice was sparked by reports of his misconduct and lack of competence whilst employed by the Royal Orthopaedic NHS Trust in Birmingham.
The HPC’s conduct and competence committee heard evidence from five witnesses who had been employed at the trust alongside Josphat. They presented evidence of incidents that had arisen during this time. These were:
1. Whilst imaging a patient’s ankle he unnecessarily subjected the patient to considerable radiation exposure (estimated to be as high as 85 times the normal exposure).
2. Following an incident he was unable to explain and demonstrate an understanding of x-ray protocols for pregnant women and the use of lead protection for gonads.
3. By not properly scrutinising a request for a lumbar spine x-ray he caused an additional avoidable x-ray to be performed.
4. On a number of occasions he failed to use and incorrectly used physical orientation markers on images.
5. He demonstrated a lack of competence in theatre imaging and his ability to handle the mobile image intensifier and positioning during examinations.
Christine Mills, chair of the HPC panel, said: “In all five incidents the individual has breached the HPC’s standards of conduct, performance and ethics. Issues one to four amount to misconduct, showing a failure to act in the best interests of patients, clients and users. Issue five amounts to lack of competence; a failure to keep professional knowledge and skills up to date.”
Mr Mwilaria, who worked at the trust from September 2003 to April 2004, submitted his own documentation to the hearing. A reference from Chesterfield Royal NHS Trust was also considered. However, the panel found all witnesses to be credible and consistent and determined each of the allegations was well founded.
A spokesperson for Chesterfield Royal confirmed to Synergy News that Mr Mwilaria had worked at the trust in early 2005 and that there had been no issues in relation to his ability. “Because it was understood to be his first UK appointment, and in line with trust policy, he worked under supervision throughout his time in employment.
“Mr Mwilaria resigned from the organisation after supplying the trust with revised details of his employment history and pending competency hearing.”
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