How would you respond if a patient or their family member yelled at you or called you a derogatory name?
As a radiographer, there will be times when you will have a patient or family member yell at you or even call you a derogatory name. Generally, it will not be because of something you did but because they are uninformed, scared, under the influence, or in pain. The interviewers would like to gain insight into your communication and problem-solving skills and see that you can handle this situation calmly and professionally. Describe how you would speak to a patient or family member if they yelled at you or said something rude and uncalled for.
"If I had a patient or family member yell at me or call me a name, I would want to see why they were upset and resolve the issue. I would calmly ask them why they were yelling at me and explain that if they want respect, they must be respectful towards me and not call me names. Once I understand why they are yelling at me, I can decide how to address their concern and make them happy. If they were yelling at me because of a medical condition or mental health issue, I would get a nurse or doctor to address their physical or mental health concerns. In my time as a radiographer, I have found that people want to be heard and understood and have their concerns addressed. For me, it's about remaining calm and professional while diffusing the situation and making the patient or family member happy. I understand I cannot take anything personally, and do not let it negatively affect me."
