z-logo
Premium
Sonographers’ communication in obstetrics: Challenges to their professional role and practice in Australia
Author(s) -
Thomas Samantha,
O'Loughlin Kate,
Clarke Jillian
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
australasian journal of ultrasound in medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2205-0140
pISSN - 1836-6864
DOI - 10.1002/ajum.12184
Subject(s) - sonographer , medicine , medical education , nursing , ultrasonography , radiology
/Purpose Despite the clinical importance of patient‐centred care in the sonographer/patient interaction in obstetric ultrasound, there has been very little current research in Australia on sonographer and sonologist communication practices in the event of an adverse finding. This study sought the views, experiences and practices of Australian sonographers, particularly in relation to adverse findings, with consideration of the implications for their professional role and practice. Methods Qualified and trainee sonographers who perform obstetric ultrasound were invited to complete a survey through the Australasian Sonographers Association. Using qualitative methodology, the authors developed themes on a range of issues related to sonographer and sonologist communication practices and roles from responses to three open‐ended questions within the survey. Result Analysis of 249 responses revealed three distinct ‘Communicator types’. ‘Open Communicators’ confidently practice open and direct communication; ‘Limited Communicators’ perceived barriers preventing them from openly communicating; ‘Variable Communicators’ indicated various challenging ‘grey areas’ which created inconsistent communication practices. Variables, such as the complexity of an adverse finding and a reporting sonologist's role, attitude and level of control they exercised over sonographer communication, all influenced respondents’ communication practices. Respondents believed professional bodies should agree on a standardised policy regarding sonographers’ roles. Discussion This paper highlights the complexity of the sonographer/patient interaction and outlines the difficulty in providing true patient‐centred care in obstetric ultrasound. Conclusion The need for a collaborative, patient‐focussed policy, which defines and recognises the role of the sonographer in the event of obstetric adverse findings, will improve the current model of care.

This content is not available in your region!

Continue researching here.

Having issues? You can contact us here