Page 14 - August

BURNOUT

Shoring Up the Front Line: Burnout Prevention for Radiologic Technologists in the
By Kathy Hardy Wake of COVID-19

Originally published in Radiology Today, Vol. 21 No. 7 P. 18

The effects of workplace stress on radiologic technologists (RTs) goes beyond attitudes and job
satisfaction, with potential impact on the hospital or imaging facility. Not only can it carry over
into personal lives—packed up and taken home—but it can also lead to physical and mental

burnout, which, in turn, can impact patient experience. With the medical community now
dealing with the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns regarding a heavy workload
or feeling underappreciated are being compounded. The imaging community has gone from an
onslaught of infection-related stressors to a significant reduction of exams due to the cancelation

of nonemergent cases to, now, a slow return to a new normal.

“There are many levels and layers of frontline health care workers in radiology, radiologic
technologists and sonographers among them,” says Lori Deitte, MD, FACR, a professor of
radiology and vice chair of education at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. “We need to
recognize and thank them all. During this time of social distancing, it’s important that we
intentionally cultivate shared communication, a sense of community, and inclusion for all

members of our department.”

Deitte, who is also chair of the ACR’s Commission on Publications and Lifelong Learning, was
instrumental in the development of the ACR Radiologist Well-being Program. She spoke with
Karen Tisdale, BS, RDMS, supervisor of ultrasound at Vanderbilt, for her insights on the issue of