Abstract
Due to a shortage of radiologists worldwide, sonographers had to assume the extended role of reporting on their own findings. It is, therefore, important for sonographers to have adequate training and the necessary skills to perform an ultrasound examination, interpret the images and describe ultrasound findings correctly. Although this advanced practice comes with increased professional recognition and better remuneration, it is also associated with greater levels of responsibility, the possibility of malpractice lawsuits if pathology was missed, high professional insurance costs and the need for additional training. Although sonographers in South Africa are trained in image interpretation and report writing, there is paucity in the literature on how they experience this added responsibility. The purpose/aim of this qualitative phenomenological study was, thus, to explore and describe how sonographers in the Gauteng province experience the responsibility of report writing. This was done with the aim of developing guidelines to assist sonographers in the execution of this duty and further develop the skills to provide better structured and coherent reports. Data were collected at different neutral locations in the Gauteng province whereby sonographers who are responsible for writing reports on the ultrasound examinations which they conduct, were invited to participate in the study. Purposeful snowball sampling allowed for information rich participants to be recruited into the study. Subsequently, data were collected from a total of 13 female sonographers who took part in focus group discussions. In addition, reflective field notes were compiled by the researcher during and after each discussion session. The views and opinions of the sonographers were analysed using content analysis during which three main themes emerged: 1. The challenges and difficulties sonographers face during the report writing process 2. Positive experiences which provide sonographers with a sense of empowerment 3. The need for skills development as a way forward for future sonographers Guidelines, based on the data collected and informed by literature, were subsequently suggested to support sonographers in their report writing role and better prepare student sonographers for clinical practice. The guidelines are predominantly aimed at assisting a) higher education institutions with curriculum review and b) ultrasound departments in vi providing practice standards in terms of reporting writing c) encouraging sonographers to take accountability for improving their professional standing through research and publications.
M.Tech. (Radiography)