(3) Diplomacy goes a long way. When offering solutions, be careful not to
tread on sensitive egos. Most physicians (most people, for that matter) do not respond
favorably to a suggestion, no matter how valid, if it is delivered with an "I can do better
than thou" attitude. Frame your ideas diplomatically, focusing on the problem, rather
than any perceived culprits: "Dr. Jones, I've been thinking about the bottleneck in room
12. Maybe, we could eliminate it if we .... Do you think it might be worth a try, for a few
days?"
4-5.
SCOPE OF PRACTICE
In 1987, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists revised its "ARRT
Rules and Regulations" and "ARRT Examinee Handbook" to include a scope of practice
statement. The statement indicates that the radiographer's scope of practice is limited
to those duties performed under the direction of a duly qualified physician. It is
expressly forbidden for an x-ray technologist to diagnose a patient's condition (either
orally or in writing) or to work independently, in a private office or institutional
department.
IT'S NEVER TOO SOON TO LEARN THE ADMINISTRATIVE AND
SUPERVISORY ASPECTS OF YOUR JOB
Sergeant Petri, an instructor (E-5) of ultrasound techniques, works in an organization
with an NCOIC (E-6) and two other soldiers (E-5) who outrank him. Assuming that
he will not have to take on any supervisory responsibilities for some time, he blithely
goes about his business, conducting classes, pulling call, and doing night duty,
without paying particular attention to the overall workings of the clinic. Then, one
day, the NCOIC slot becomes vacant. And, to SFC Petri's surprise and dismay, he is
the one selected for the job (his colleagues having been passed over for various
reasons.)
Sergeant Petri is, however, woefully unprepared for the supervisory and
administrative responsibilities he will soon have fulfill. Administratively speaking, the
only thing he has done is order a few supplies and keep track of his own stock levels.
Because of his failure to take an interest in the big picture, he will have a lot of
learning to don in a short time.
Since responsibility tends to come earlier than one might expect in the military, you
would do well to become aware of the overall operation and the administrative and
supervisory dimensions of the job at all junctures of your career. Your turn at higher
responsibility might come sooner than you may expect.
MD0067
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