Posted by Marilyn Lawrence on April 04, 1998 at 13:45:19:
1. I really can't remember how I actually chose the profession of Radiologic Technologist. I remember always wanting to do something in the medical field, but I didn't want to be a nurse. I heard about the R.T. school in our area by word of mouth. I had no career counseling in high school, that office had a person who sat in it, but that was about all of the productivity that came from that office.
2. I don't see myself working in my chosen profession for more than five more years. There is a strong chance I will be working in a related field such as teaching within the profession, but not practicing the way I do now. After fifteen years in the cardiac cath lab, I find it difficult with the middle of the night call-back, and the decrease in staffing which leads to more mandatory overtime, more call days, and added stress.
3. Yes, I agree with the survey conducted in 1995. I think that the dissatisfaction comes from the changes in health care, not necessarily from the dislike of a chosen profession. A big area leading to dissatisfaction is the reduction in staffing. Another area is the lack of strong leadership within our department. It leads to uncertainity, confusion, and frustration.