What medical imaging professionals talk about when they talk about compassion

Abstract

Background Compassion is a poorly understood concept in Medical Imaging research, but an increase in its focus was recommended in the Francis Report (2013). Little research has been conducted in this area to date.

Methods The project was conducted from within a constructivist paradigm with appropriate ethical approval. As part of a wider doctoral study, data were harvested from a Twitter journal club discussion between medical imaging professionals of the author's published literature review and one focus group of post-graduate radiographers. Data were transcribed and analysed thematically.

Results Compassion in DI is conceptualised according to three themes constructed from the data: 1) Perceptible elements of the procedure; 2) Underlying qualities, skills and abilities of radiographers; 3) Moral and ethical foundations. When medical imaging professionals talk about compassion they talk about its importance in professional practice, the challenges faced in giving compassionate care and the strategies they employ to cope with the emotional as well as physical demands they face. Contradictory organisational values and an over-emphasis on individuals’ responsibility for providing compassionate care were also highlighted. Ethical professional practice need not necessarily include in every interaction expressions of compassion, or feelings in a medical imaging professional of caring about their patient.

Conclusion The concept of compassion has depth, with surface appearances underpinned by moral values and behaviour-motivating drivers. These findings offer a clearer understanding of compassion that could inform radiographic practice and education.