Summary
Maintaining patient comfort is an integral part of quality treatment, and this principle applies to ultrasound procedures. Patients may experience anxiety or discomfort during the scan, but there are several steps healthcare professionals can take to ensure well-being and create a positive experience. In this article, we will explore tips and techniques for maintaining patient comfort during ultrasound procedures.
Communication and training:
Begin by explaining the ultrasound procedure to the patient. Give a clear and understandable overview of what to expect, including how long the exam will take and how you might feel. Answer any questions or concerns the patient may have, promoting a sense of control and understanding.
Privacy and modesty:
Maintain patient privacy by ensuring they are properly covered during the procedure. Use appropriate padding to cover areas not covered by the scan. This practice respects the patient’s modesty and helps them feel more relaxed.
Hot gel and equipment:
Use warm ultrasound gel and preheated probes during the scan. Cold gel and devices can be uncomfortable and cause anxiety for the patient. Warm gel improves comfort and can help relax tight muscles.
Positioning for comfort:
Pay attention to the patient’s position. Make sure the patient is in a comfortable and relaxed position. If necessary, provide pillows or support and adjust the examination table to prevent strain or discomfort.
Live remarks:
Provide real-time feedback to the patient. Explain what you observe on the ultrasound monitor, which can activate the patient and make the experience more interactive. Allowing them to see their anatomy and pointing out interesting structures can help reduce anxiety.
Encourage breathing techniques:
For certain scans, such as an abdominal ultrasound, patients are instructed to breathe slowly, and deeply, and hold their breath if necessary. Breathing techniques help reduce motion artifacts and improve the user experience.
Check-in and breaks:
Check-in with the patient periodically to ensure their comfort. Ask about discomfort or pain and offer short breaks if the exam is long. Encouraging the patient to communicate their needs increases confidence and comfort.
Selection and monitoring of patients:
Allow the patient to control the experience. Ask if they want a specific sensor or if they need to adjust the comfort level. These small choices can empower a patient and contribute to their well-being.
Empathy and reassurance:
Express empathy and offer reassurance during the procedure. Let the patient know that you are there to ensure their well-being, answer their questions, and address their concerns.
Follow-up:
After the ultrasound, observe the patient and ask about their comfort and feeling after the procedure. Answer any lingering questions or concerns and provide post-scan care instructions as needed.
In short, maintaining patient comfort during ultrasound procedures is an important part of healthcare. Effective communication, patient care, and attention to physical comfort largely create a positive and reassuring experience. By prioritizing patient well-being, healthcare professionals promote better patient outcomes and a more positive healthcare journey.
