An ethnographic study of the culture in a diagnostic imaging department

The aim of this study was to explore the culture in a Diagnostic Imaging Department (DID) with the primary focus on Diagnostic Radiographers (DRs). The objectives were to describe the culture in a DID and highlight the current workplace cultural issues that face DRs, to explore how people learn to become a DR and how they become professionally socialised, and to observe and describe how DRs communicate and interact within the DID. Method An ethnographic approach was used and participant observation was carried out for a four month period in a DID in the East of England. Semi-structured interviews with ten key informants were carried out to explore further the issues uncovered by the observation. Results The data was analysed using thematic analysis and four overarching concepts were identified. Relationships with patients Relationships with colleagues Structure and environment Characterising the role of the DR DRs exhibit resistance to change; and ambivalence to research, continuing professional development (CPD) and evidence-based-practice. Domination by the medical profession remains and affects the culture. DRs continue to conform to accepted behaviour; this is passed on through role modelling. They make a rapid assessment of patients in order to deal with them; theytend not to become involved with patients emotionally; exercising professional detachment. Team working evidently plays an important role in the DID. Conclusion The results of this study help to describe the complex nature of the culture in the DID. The DID is a task-focussed environment where efficiency is important, as a result patient care and quality of service may suffer. DRs need to be more pro-active in promoting and developing their profession. Recommendations Further research is recommended into patient care skills, the level of or need for emotional intelligence, coping strategies used and the process of professional socialisation