The attitudes of radiographers toward patients in government hospitals in Bloemfontein.

Authors

  • L Beÿer Central University of Technology
  • P Diedericks Universitas Annex

Keywords:

professional conduct, respect, dignity

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The profession radiography integrates scientific knowledge and technical skills with effective patient interaction to provide quality patient care and useful diagnostic information. Radiographers must however remain sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of patients through good communication, patient care skills and professional conduct [1]. The ethical duties of radiographers include the treatment of patients with respect and dignity and maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality at all times [2]. Although radiography students receive training in professional conduct, which include communication skills and the handling of patients whilst maintaining a positive attitude, there is no evidence available that patients are treated with the necessary respect and dignity. The purpose of the study was to investigate the attitudes of radiographers towards their patients in diagnostic radiology departments. A quantitative research study was conducted at the government hospitals in Bloemfontein, including the radiology departments of the National District Hospital and Pelonomi Regional Hospital. Data collection took place by means of questionnaires that were distributed to 90 randomly selected patients directly after they had their x-ray examinations. Data analysis indicated how patients perceived the attitudes of radiographers and revealed the areas patients regarded valuable when being treated by radiographers. The overall conclusion drawn from the research is that the radiographers, who participated in the study, do treat patients with the necessary respect and dignity. Limitations of the study were identified and recommendations to improve practice were made.

Author Biographies

L Beÿer, Central University of Technology

S

P Diedericks, Universitas Annex

B Tech Radiography (Diagnostic) Posbus 13036, Noordstad Bloemfontein 9302 Tel: 0832855033

Downloads

Published

2010-11-12

Issue

Vol. 48 No. 2 (2010)

Section

Original Articles

License

Copyright on all published material belongs to the Society of Radiographers of South Africa (SORSA).

I hereby understand and declare that:

  • All proprietary rights other than copyright are reserved to the authors, as well as the right to reproduce original figures and tables from this item in their future works, provided full credit is given to the original publication The South African Radiographer ISSN 0258 0241.
  • In consideration of the reviewing and editing done by the editors of The South African Radiographer of the above named manuscript, the author/s hereby transfer, assign, or otherwise convey all copyright ownership world-wide, in all languages, to the Society of Radiographers of South Africa in the event that this manuscript is accepted for publication.
  • If the manuscript has been commissioned by another person or organisation, or if it has been written as part of the duties of an employee, that full authorization has been given by the representative of the commissioning organisation or employer to be published in the The South African Radiographer.