Heartbeat: No two days are the same for our radiology nurses

April 26, 2019

If you like technology and constant exposure to new and innovative equipment then look no further than our radiology nursing team.

The team provides care for patients undergoing a variety of procedures and investigations in the imaging department at Sandwell and City Hospitals.

We caught up with Sister, Tara Kaur who is a clinical nurse specialist who told us more.

She said: “We are a very vibrant team who deal with complex cases on a daily basis so no two days are the same.

“Our work essentially involves the assessment, planning and care of patients who undergo diagnostic interventional and therapeutic procedures. This can include procedures like biopsy for patients with suspected cancer, carrying out sepsis drains or inserting IV cannulas.

“Often this means we have to develop a very strong relationship with the patient.

We have to ensure they are comfortable and that they understand the tests and treatments that we are carrying out.”

Upon meeting the radiology nursing team it is very apparent how close knit they are. “We are a small team of nine including staff nurses and HCAs. We have to support each other to ensure the clinic lists are completed in a timely manner and at the patient’s pace. We work together for the patients and are committed to delivering quality care,” continued Tara.

“The majority of our time is spent in theatre, often wearing our heavy lead coats as you can see in the photo,” laughed Tara. “I think many people assume we are just doing minor procedures in the x-ray room, however we have specialist and complex duties in theatres. I have been doing this role for over 30 years and I can certainly say it’s very rewarding. You get to make a real difference to patients and at the same time enhance your clinical skills. So if you are a keen learner, have a great attitude and can show initiative, this is the place for you.”