Nurses help keep patients safe, calm and comfortable during imaging procedures

Amanda Hughes, RN
Imaging Services
St. Joseph’s Hospital

Smart Living: When a patient comes in for an imaging procedure, they will meet not only a radiology technologist but also a nurse. What is the nurse’s role in imaging and radiology?

Amanda Hughes: We provide specialized care for patients undergoing imaging, which can include X-rays, CT scans, MRIs and radiation therapy. Our focus is on patient safety, comfort and education before, during and after the procedure. This includes assessing patients, administering sedation or contrast dyes, monitoring vitals, starting IVs and providing post-procedure care and discharge instructions.

We are also there and ready to respond if a patient has a reaction to contrast dyes or medications. That’s when a nurse’s critical thinking skills come into play, to be able to detect a patient’s reaction and take care of it quickly.

SL: Because you are part of the procedure from beginning to end, do radiology nurses also help patients with their anxiety?

AH: Yes. We meet them right after they are checked in, and often they are scared, especially if this is their first time going through this kind of procedure. They are afraid of the unknown. We keep them informed of everything that is happening and remind them that this will help their doctor diagnose their condition. We explain everything in a kind, empathetic way, right up to discharge. We always focus on explaining the unknown, calming patient fears and making sure they are educated and empowered when they go home.