As I sit with my mother-in-law in her final days, I think about the care she has received from healthcare professionals along the way. She had many radiographs and scans completed, and each and every time, she would ask if the technologist had me as their instructor and, if so, proudly listen as they spoke of our time together.
Mom would then tell me how comfortable they made her feel, how nice they were, and how much she appreciated them. Of course, she would also add, “They must have had a good teacher”.
Throughout my career, I have had no regrets about the level of patient care I have given. It is a great feeling to know that I gave my best for 40 years as a technologist and more than 27 years as an educator. I would challenge you to do your best each and every day. One of my last professors during my Master’s education posed a question to us as she challenged us to give our best to our students. She said, “If not you, then who?”. That has stuck with me. We cannot depend on those around us to do the quality work that we should be doing. Our patients deserve more. Our families deserve more.
I reflect back on the number of students that I have had and then consider the number of patients that they have contact with across their careers. It is an overwhelming feeling to realize that, in some way, I had an effect on the care of every one of those patients.
I don’t say this to boast. I share it so you know you can make a difference. The patients you x-ray or scan are scared, sick, or in pain. They may be counting on you to help provide their physicians with a life-saving diagnosis or a life-changing treatment plan.
Is the diagnosis a fracture that you assist in imaging during surgery? Is it cancer, where you’re the one performing progress scans through treatment? Are you the radiation therapist delivering that treatment? No matter what the images may show, know that you made a difference. Our patients remember us for how we treat them on the worst of their days.
Here are a few simple reminders of ways we can elevate patient care, even in the busiest clinical environments:
- Introduce yourself and explain what you’re doing. Patients often feel powerless. A little clarity goes a long way.
- Speak in plain language. Medical jargon creates distance. Comfort builds when patients understand what’s happening.
- Be mindful of body language. Sometimes a gentle tone and eye contact can ease anxiety more than words ever will.
- Slow down when you can. Even a moment of calm can make patients feel seen and valued.
- Treat every patient like family. When in doubt, ask yourself, “How would I want my loved one treated in this moment?”
These are small things but they’re what patients remember most.
We may only spend a few minutes with each patient, but in that brief window, we’re their advocate. Sometimes we might be the only one they feel truly sees them. That moment of compassion, that extra minute explaining what’s happening, or simply listening, can shift their entire experience. It’s easy to forget the power of that role, but it’s one we should never take lightly.
I hope you and your family stay healthy. But if you ever find yourself on the other side of the table, I hope you receive the care you deserve. The best way to guarantee this is to mentor technologists who cross your path. Show compassion. Demonstrate competence. Live your passion. Be the technologist you’d want caring for you.
If not you, then who?
