Occupational stress and wellbeing: A qualitative exploration of the perspectives and experiences of migrant sonographers practising in the United Kingdom

Ollawa, C.U. and Lawal, Olanrewju and Akpan, E. and Upeh, E.R. and Kwame Anudjo, M.N. (2025) Occupational stress and wellbeing: A qualitative exploration of the perspectives and experiences of migrant sonographers practising in the United Kingdom. Radiography, 31 (2). p. 102882. ISSN 1078-8174

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Abstract

Occupational stress (OS) and burnout are prevalent in healthcare, including ultrasound. These challenges are exacerbated by staff shortages, increasing workload, and ageing population growth, leading to a growing reliance on ultrasound for diagnosis. In the UK, migrant sonographers fill critical staffing gaps but face unique work-related stressors that impact their well-being and mental health. This study explored the experiences and perspectives of migrant sonographers practising in the UK regarding OS and well-being.
Methods
Ethical approval was obtained from Health Sciences University, Bournemouth (HRS-2024-ECYBl). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 HCPC-registered migrant sonographers across ten regions in the UK who had experienced OS. These interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically using NVivo software. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed.
Results
Five major themes were developed: workplace dynamics, socioeconomic factors, practice-related factors, personal issues and coping mechanisms. Primary sources of stress identified were workload, difficult patients, managerial/leadership challenges, immigration issues, and lack of awareness of the procedure for reporting repetitive stress injury (RSI) and work-related stress.
Conclusion
The findings highlight unique stressors associated with migrant sonographers that negatively impact their mental and physical well-being and performance. Thus, emphasising the need for inclusive managerial approaches and culturally tailored support systems. Customised onboarding, stress management training, and RSI reporting protocols can enhance well-being, job satisfaction, and retention.
Implications for practice
Healthcare institutions must address the unique needs of migrant practitioners. Culturally competent onboarding programs and ongoing support systems should be prioritised to foster a resilient and satisfied workforce.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.1016/j.radi.2025.01.017
Dates:	Date Event 23 January 2025 Accepted 11 February 2025 Published Online
Subjects:	CAH02 - subjects allied to medicine > CAH02-05 - medical sciences > CAH02-05-03 - biomedical sciences (non-specific)
Divisions:	Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences > College of Health and Care Professions
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	28 Mar 2025 15:24
Last Modified:	28 Mar 2025 15:25
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16272

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