Abstract
Diagnostic radiographers are health professionals who integrate patient history, supporting clinical data and imaging protocols with the radiographic examination in order to obtain quality diagnostic results (HPCSA, 2020:2). While they fulfil their role, radiographers are responsible for the entire radiographic procedure, which includes patient care, use of technology, applying scientific knowledge to the clinical practice, and quality assurance to acquire the required medical images (Lundgren, Lunden & Andersson, 2015: 68). The professional identity of a diagnostic radiographer is described as being of dual nature (Stalsberg & Thingnes, 2016:239). This duality arises from the notion that radiographers work with both scientific mechanical technology and patient-centred care to which they must apply their humanistic nature (Joyness, 2014:56). The professional identity of diagnostic radiographers is created in the diagnostic department, where diagnostic radiographers interact with patients and other health care professionals (Stalsberg & Thingnes, 2016: 243). The aim of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore and describe the professional identity of diagnostic radiographers in Johannesburg. Furthermore, the study intended to formulate and propose recommendations for the professional identity of diagnostic radiographers in SA, based on the findings of the study. The population used in this research consisted of diagnostic radiographers working in private hospitals, public hospitals, and those who own their own clinical practices. For this research the sample size consisted of diagnostic radiographers who are registered with the HPCSA and practising in Johannesburg. Several sampling techniques were used to access information-rich participants for this study. Firstly, purposive sampling was used and then quota sampling was used to ensure the sample represented the public and private sector and those owning their own practice. Finally, a snowball sampling method was used to acquire information-rich participants who knew the radiographers already participating in the study. Data was collected using semi-structured, one-on-one interviews. Additionally, field notes were also used as a method of collecting data. To perform data analysis, Braun & Clarke‟s (2006) thematic analysis was used. Inductive analysis was applied by the researcher in order to work back and forth between codes and themes. The research findings demonstrated that diagnostic radiographers who were interviewed had a positive professional identity. Furthermore, diagnostic radiographers who were interviewed...
M.Tech. (Radiography)