Supportive Care in Radiotherapy - Essay Example

     Supportive care is an integral part of the process of treatment and must take into account the combined effects of these other therapies, as well as the effects of radiotherapy. Understanding the complex organizational and unique interprofessional context of radiotherapy care is essential.

Discussion:  According to Gronefeld; Cornuelle (1998:p.xxiv), there are several criteria in the Radiographer’s code of ethics, and in the statements of professional conduct developed by the College of Radiographers. These statements have made a deep impact on the radiographer’s attitude and behavior in the fulfillment of his work; and in the guidance adopted from these important principles, in the clinical departments.

     We have noticed physicians, technologists, nurses, aids, and others in the health care team, treating and caring for patients, and some of them “merely go through the motions” (p.1). Yet there are some members of the health care team that “go the extra mile” for their patients. They are the true professionals who try to understand and address the patient’s concerns and anxieties, they make pleasant conversation with the patient as they go about doing their work, and they treat each patient with the dignity and respect that they deserve.

     Healthcare workers who do their duty, stay focused on the patient’s work as their main priority, and do not get distracted by others, are also behaving as professionals, true to the Statement of Professional Conduct that is used as the guidelines for behavior and conduct.

Maintaining a clean, tidy, and well-groomed appearance, the radiographer or other healthcare

worker approaches the patient, addressing them by their name, speaks in a well-modulated voice, and attends to the patient, giving them her full attention. This is also the professionalism of a good standard. If one of the newly appointed, freshly graduated radiographers hired by the radiology department has an attitude of trying to intimidate and demean his co-workers, he will be avoided by all the other healthcare workers. The other radiographer is seen to enjoy coordinating with the other workers, is helpful, and shows team spirit, which means he has internalized the code of ethics of his profession and is showing true professionalism.

     Gronefeld; Cornuelle (1998: p.1) feel that another way in which radiographers express their professionalism is by “giving back” what they have received from radiologic technology: by playing an active role in local and regional societies that function to help technologists continue their education and represent the interests of the members to the public and government. As health care workers, monitoring our behavior and attitude towards our patients comes foremost, and without this basic conduct, all other successes or achievements become meaningless.

     According to Nicholson; Burgess (2003: p.51), effective communication skills are as important to the radiographer as knowing how to operate complex radiographic equipment. In addition to receiving, interpreting, and carrying out directions, the radiographer must also give instructions, and offer consolation and reassurance to the patient. In the health care field it is vital that both verbal and non-verbal communication is extremely clear, and leaves no room for misunderstanding or confusion. Developing rapport with the patient ensures that they will consider the radiographer as their ally. Gronefeld; Cornuelle (1998: p.2) state that because an informed patient is more compliant, patient communication and education are integral to a successful examination.

Conclusion:  All the other important statements of professional conduct such as radiographers must uphold and enhance the good standing and reputation of the profession, and also improve their professional knowledge and competence, are all significant guidelines, that are followed.