Professionalism In The Radiological Field Research Paper

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Professionalism in the Radiologic Sciences Professionalism in healthcare can be difficult to define. According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary (2014), professionalism is “the skill, good judgment, and polite behavior that is expected from a person who is trained to do a job well.” Professionals may encounter conflicting belief systems that can compromise patient care; therefore, professionals must make decisions dependent upon compassion, honesty, and the understanding of justice (Adler & Carlton, 2012). The radiological profession incorporates individuals with unique personalities, and these individuals must work together to blend different values, behaviors, ideals, and obligations. Professionalism is fundamental to the practice …show more content…

Thomas et al. (2011) note that the radiological field is a highly technical and rapidly evolving area of healthcare. While graduating from an accredited program of study and becoming credentialed to practice in the field are certainly the basis for professionalism, a commitment to improve is vital. Research by Frush (2011) discusses professionalism as more than a subjective outward behavior that an individual projects. Professionalism happens in the background and can be objectively measured in ways such as monitoring equipment accreditation and practice guidelines with results visible in improved patient outcomes. Kanter, Nguyen, Klau, Spiegel, and Ambrosini (2013) illustrate that professionalism and excellence are interchangeable. Understanding that learning is not stagnant and that personal skills and knowledge require constant improvement conveys excellence, which in turn conveys professionalism. Sim and Radloff (2009) concur that continuing education programs to maintain clinical competence and role expansion are crucial to excellence. Sim and Radloff (2009) add that continued growth through research is an important aspect of professionalism. Ongoing research conducted by members of the radiological field advances the growth and knowledge of the profession. Kanter et al. (2013) further discusses the importance of self-reflection. Knowing when and where improvement …show more content…

Effective interactions between radiologic personnel and patients can make the patient’s visit pleasant and meaningful (Adler & Carlton, 2012). To interact effectively with patients, understanding the patients’ needs and concerns are important. Fields et al. (2011) illustrate that empathy is an important component of professionalism, and is mutually beneficial between medical staff members and patients across all health professions. Sim and Radloff (2009) assert that altruism is an important attribution of professionalism, and that it is the responsibility of the healthcare professional to place patient interest and well-being over monetary gain. Therefore, radiologic professionals acting altruistic and emphatic with patients leads to better patient compliance and fulfillment. As with most medical professionals, radiologic professionals have a great responsibility when interacting with patients. Patients tend to view medical staff as powerful and omniscient (Adler & Carlton, 2012). According to Yielder and Davis (2009), this dominance derives from the extraordinary knowledge, techniques, and skills of the medical staff. As a result, patients rely on professional’s competence to provide high quality healthcare. Professionalism in radiology involves the medical personnel breaking down dominance barriers and working together with patients to

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