Dealing with Patients who Decline Radiographs - Essay Example

This paper "Dealing with Patients who Decline Radiographs" is a wonderful example of medical research. Radiographs are clinical test that involves imaging of human external structure using electromagnetic radiation like X-rays, to examine a disorder.  Unfortunately, many patients have developed a fear of radiographs and wonder why they have to undergo them. Nevertheless, radiographs are highly rated among the medics as the best option in examining internal structures. According to Wilder (n.pg), radiographs help ensure that the necessary treatment planning, diagnosis, and subsequent treatments can occur. On this note, it is important to professionally handle and if possible convince patients that decline radiographs.

 As a patient, one can be nervous and anxious about radiography. It is, therefore, the obligation of the doctor to find out why the patient is not comfortable with radiographs and take the necessary precautions. There are three main steps a doctor can take in dealing with such a patient. The first step is to educate the patient on radiographs and their benefits (Wilder n.pg). The second one is to assure the patient’s safety by letting him or her know that, in case of any effect, the office will be responsible. It is also necessary to let them know that the number of radiations used to radiograph him or her. Lastly, the doctor should also inform the patient of any alternative examination and why radiographs outdo them. 

In conclusion, while patients will probably always feel that radiographs are risky, I totally support radiographs. This is because it is the ultimate method of examining internal organs that cannot examine with necked eyes. It is also clear that it is the ultimate obligation of the doctors to provide insight to the patients on the need for radiographs. They need to convince their patients on the health safety and why radiograph is the best method to use.

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