Gynecology & Obstetrics
Open Access

The sonographer role in communicating adverse findings to pregnant patients

5^th International Conference on Gynecology and Obstetrics

October 08-10, 2018 | Zurich, Switzerland

Samantha Thomas

University of Sydney, Australia

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Gynecol Obstet

Abstract :

In many countries, sonographers are the frontline practitioners in diagnosing adverse outcomes in obstetric ultrasound. Patient expectations have changed as technology has improved with pregnant patients expecting to know the results of their scan instantaneously. This research explored the views, experiences and practices of Australian sonographers across a range of private and public practice sites in multiple geographical settings. The findings indicate: there is ambiguity and inconsistency both in understanding practice protocols and the sonographer role in delivering an adverse outcome to pregnant patients; most sonographers lack formalized training and also feel unsupported in these situations leading to frustration, stress and burnout. To achieve the best patient-centered care sonographers need a supportive environment which has interprofessional collaboration and professional body involvement to establish set policies and practice protocols that clearly state the roles and responsibilities of sonographers, radiologists and obstetrician sonologists.

Biography :

E-mail: stho5943@uni.sydney.edu.au