Radiographers And The Importance Of Exams In Radiography

Radiographers assist the radiologist in performing exams such as barium enemas, intravenous pyelograms, and upper gastrointestinal exams (Gurley & Calloway, 2011). All of these exams require patient preparation before the exams can be started. It is up to the radiographer to explain to the patients what is required of them in order to prepare for the examination. Those patients who do not fully comprehend medical directions run the risk of a cancelled appointment, or complications during the procedure. For example, magnetic resonance image (MRI) is part of the radiography field. The MRI machine is a strong magnet that can move metal in the body. Before any MRI procedure is done, a thorough history must be taken to ensure patients do not have metal on, or in, any part of their body. For instance, patients who have a history of brain surgery and have had an aneurism placed in the brain can experience serious complications (even death) if an MRI procedure is performed without being aware of the clips presence. Teaching radiography students the importance of health literacy and disseminating this information to patients ultimately ensures safer patient exams.
Using education to teach health literacy can improve an individual’s life. When a patient understands the importance of making
Integrating spirituality into an HL educational program is imperative if the whole body is to be treated. Rowold (2012) documents the importance of spiritual health, relating it to psychological health and feelings of joy and happiness. Scripture teaches that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit and it is every person’s responsibility to care for that temple. “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19, English Standard