RADIOGRAPHERS HAVE AN ETHICAL AND A LEGAL OBLIGATION TO
QUESTION ORDERS TO PERFORM PROCEDURES OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF
PRACTICE
In an address to the annual meeting of the Tennessee Society of Radiologic
Technologists (1991), Michael R. Bloyd, R.T., R.N. expressed his concern about x-
ray technologists who "carry out procedures on a daily basis that are legally [and
ethically] questionable."7 Bloyd maintains that "technologists should question any
order from a physician that they are skeptical about or that they don't understand."8
Some x-ray technologists don't feel a personal sense of responsibility for their
actions because they rationalize that it is the radiologist who is ultimately responsible
for what goes on in the radiology department. But, in fact, every x-ray technologist
must, to some extent, assume personal responsibility for his or her own actions.
Starting your own IV, injecting narcotics such as Valium, or injecting contrast agents
are actions outside the scope of practice. Performing these tasks means that the x-
ray technologist is actually "practicing medicine or nursing and that is against the
law,"9 says Bloyd. (One of the first questions an x-ray technologist would be asked
on the witness stand was whether or not he or she knew the drug's contraindications
and associated allergic reactions.)
It is also expected that you will competently and empathetically respond to patient
concerns. This means communicating effectively with the patient. (See other
column.) The patient expects to be treated well. You are expected to know what to
do if your patient faints or falls off the bed, or suddenly grows sullen or
uncooperative. When the physician requests a radiographic examination, you must
be able to interact effectively with the patient, creating a caring atmosphere and
presenting a professional demeanor that conveys competence.
e. Platform Instruction. Although you have been trained as an x-ray
technologist, you could ultimately train other soldiers. Active duty service members at
Phase II training sites, for example, can expect to have instructional responsibilities.
Depending upon where you are assigned, you may or may not receive some training for
this new role. The Academy of Health Sciences at Fort Sam Houston, Texas offers a
course for incoming instructors. But at other locations, it could well be that you are
thrown into the classroom without formal training. Therefore, you should take
advantage of continuing education opportunities whenever they present themselves. If
you are called upon to provide on-the-job training, you should welcome the experience
as an opportunity to develop or enhance your skills. You never know when you may
need these additional skills.
f. Evaluating the Practice and Recommending Improvements. You will be
called upon to evaluate any or all elements of the clinical practice in the course of your
career.
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