Radiology Nursing

THE RADIOLOGY DEPARTMENT is one place where RNs can reap important professional rewards. It's not an easy job - advances in medical technology and higher levels of care for an increasingly sicker patient population are literally changing the face of imaging departments.

But that also means radiology nurses are in greater demand than ever. Hospital patients undergoing special interventional procedures in medical imaging departments need a positive atmosphere and a thorough explanation of the procedure - and much of that falls to radiology RNs. If patients are well-informed, they're likely to need less sedation and also to have less anxiety and fewer postprocedural complications.

Indeed, the radiology RN is a key player in peripheral angiography and works in concert with the technologist and the radiologist or cardiologist to ensure positive outcomes.

Not for the Faint of Heart
Radiology RNs must possess strong critical care skills, exhibit sound judgment, and be willing to serve as patient advocates. They don't have the same "assignment" during their shift as happens in floor nursing. They go from one patient to another throughout the day, assessing and monitoring, documenting, providing education, and intervening in crises. Besides providing the standard of care and improving quality of care, radiology nurses also have considerable influence over decisions made in their departments.

Nurses identify potential problems that sometimes result in delay or cancellation of a procedure. They can also question the necessity of already established procedures and collaborate with radiologists and other physicians to ensure successful outcomes. Radiology nurses usually work alone or together with another RN, but must be able to think and act on their own.

They must also be physically fit and prepared for the demands placed on them throughout the day - for example, radiology nurses spend most of their time walking, standing, or wearing 10-pound lead aprons for certain procedures.