Radiology: The Roles Of An Ultrasound Technician

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Radiology is the science of utilizing varying forms of high-energy radiation such as x-rays, for the diagnosis of injury and disease. An x-ray technologist is the medical professional responsible for the x-ray procedure. The technologist has many roles and is obligated to follow protocol while completing daily responsibilities. One of the main roles of the technician is communicating with the patient, this involves but is not limited to: greeting the patient, educating the patient on the procedure, active listening, empathizing, and even non-verbal communication. These communication methods are essential in building a trusting relationship with the patient; allowing for a cooperative patient and in a smooth procedure (Learn.org, 2016). Other …show more content…
An ultrasonographer is responsible for using a specialized piece of equipment called a transducer which is held to the patient’s skin while emitting ultrasounds (Ilaslan, 2016). The resulting image is commonly called a sonogram and is the basis of all ultrasound technicians fundamental responsibilities, such as capturing the image, interpreting the image, communication with the patient, patient positioning, informing the sonographer, explaining instructions pre and post procedure and more specialized roles (CMRTO, 2016)too specific to the procedure (Alberta, 2016). Similarly, the skill sets obligatory for effective job performance in ultrasonography are similar to radiography standards. Thus, the main traits of a successful sonographer all pertain to patient interactions, and are directly correlated to the personality profile awareness disc model. This model illustrates four different personality types and the characteristics they consist of. The two main profiles which are considered to be most beneficial to help ultrasonographers communicate effectively are the influential and steady profiles (Blaszynski, 2016). Both of these profiles are people focussed and expand on being an influential and supportive individual who demonstrates skills of negotiating conflict, steady and predictable behaviour, and being understanding and a great …show more content…
The role of a radiation therapist is similar to those of diagnostic imaging technologists, although can be slightly more intricate in supplying necessary doses in a given region of the body. The role of the therapist includes, patient communication such as explaining the procedure and answering any questions or concerns, following safety procedures, preforming an x-ray or CT on the patient to determine where malignancy is located, operate the machine to treat patient with radiation, monitor patient after treatment, constructing patient positioning aids and keeping detailed records of treatment (Truity Pyschometrics, 2016). In oncology, in order to carry out these responsibilities productively a therapist must carry a certain set of skills. These skills consist of patience, empathy, therapy and counselling, interpretation, decision making, planning and analysis, and equipment operation. These skill set can fall into three main categories; interpersonal skills, physical stamina or technical skills (MyMajors, 2016). It is required a radiation therapist encompass these qualities and be able to use them dynamically in a work environment. Radiation therapy mainly takes place in hospitals due to the limited number of machines available for this form of procedure. As a result, work environment conditions are subject to the situations occurring around the hospital and in turn can affect

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