When patients arrive in the radiology department for a diagnostic examination, they expect health care workers to respect their preferences, values, and cultural backgrounds. The radiographer plays an important role as a liaison between the patient, the practitioner, and other members of the health care team. The radiographer also is responsible for gathering pertinent medical history, providing care that incorporates constant awareness of patients' comfort, and minimizing radiation dose without compromising the quality of the radiograph. Other responsibilities include providing patient education that consists of proper instructions before, during, and after the procedure. To fulfill their duties, radiographers must establish good communication and rapport with the patient. Communication can be verbal or nonverbal, and the radiographer must be aware of the cultural differences inherent in both. Cultural misunderstandings can cause gaps in communication and can result in stress for the patient and the health care worker. Therefore, it is important for radiographers to be culturally competent.
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