Real-Life Communication
A large part of a radiologic technologist's day is
working directly with patients. Patients are often sick and usually scared
about the procedure. This can be for many reasons.
The patient may
be unfamiliar with the health-care system. They may be nervous that the treatment
will cause side-effects. They may be scared that the procedure will cause
them pain. And they are likely stressed out about what the final results will
be.
It is an important part of a radiologic technologist's job to talk
to their patients. They want to always let them know what's going on.
They
also want to tell the patient the reason for each step of the procedure. They
should be open to field any questions the patient may have. The goal is to
make the patient comfortable and to get a great image.
"Communication
with patients, co-workers and the other members of a health-care team is an
essential part of the job," says Irene Chaudhary.
You are a radiologic
technologist working at a hospital. You are meeting with an elderly patient
who has been having heart trouble. You are scheduled to perform an MRI that
will help to diagnose the cause.
When you meet with the patient, he
is very nervous. He tells you he doesn't want to be drugged, pumped full of
radiation, and poked and prodded. You notice that he is fidgeting a lot and
can't seem to sit still.
Here are some facts about MRIs:
- MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging
- MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves (not radiation)
- MRI images help to guide treatments
- The exam is not painful
- It is important to be still during the exam, or the images will blur and
cause errors
- Sedatives are available (but not necessary)
- The table is hard and cold
- Blankets and pillows are available
- The machine is loud when it turns on (thumping and humming noises)
- Ear plugs are available
- There's an intercom in the scanner
- There's an intercom in the scanner