In case of a patient collapse during a radiographic procedure, what is the first action a radiographer should take?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Call for medical assistance

Rationale:

In the event of a patient collapse during a radiographic procedure, the first action a radiographer should take is to call for medical assistance. This is crucial because immediate professional medical intervention is necessary to assess and manage the patient's condition effectively.
Radiographers are trained in basic life support but are not equipped to handle all medical emergencies on their own. Calling for medical assistance ensures that the patient receives the appropriate care promptly, which can be lifesaving.
Once medical assistance is summoned, the radiographer can then follow any further instructions given by the medical team and provide support as needed.

Explanation of Other Options:

Administer CPR

Rationale: Administering CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is crucial if the patient is not breathing and has no pulse. However, the radiographer should first call for medical assistance to ensure that advanced life support can be provided as soon as possible. CPR can be started immediately after calling for help if required.

Stop the X-ray procedure

Rationale: While it is essential to stop the X-ray procedure to prevent further exposure, this should not be the first action. The primary focus should be on ensuring that medical help is on the way. Stopping the procedure can be done simultaneously or immediately after calling for assistance.

Monitor the patient’s vitals

Rationale: Monitoring the patient's vitals is important to provide critical information to the arriving medical team. However, it should not be the first action. Medical assistance must be called immediately, and then the radiographer can monitor vitals and provide necessary details to the responders.

Conclusion:

In the event of a patient collapse during a radiographic procedure, the most important initial action is to call for medical assistance. This ensures that the patient receives immediate and appropriate medical care. Other actions, such as administering CPR, stopping the procedure, and monitoring vitals, are also important but should follow after ensuring that help is on the way.