Ten Important Things to Rember as a Radiologic Technologist (learned the hard way by a few techs close to me)

1. Correctly identify your patient, as well as the study you are performing on them... nobody wants a surprise barium enema who thought they were coming in for a chest x-ray.

2. Wear a mask in the O.R... especially when chewing gum... and sneezing... and having your gum-wad land on someone's open spine.

3. Never, under any circumstances, place your face near the enema tip when pulling it out after a BE. Even though you think you have all of the remnants drained into the bag, it's just not a good idea. If you've seen "The Matrix" where Neo first learns to dodge bullets, you'll understand what I mean.

4. Always ask if there is a "chance" a patient might be pregnant. Even though some may appear to be six months pregnant, it's the safest policy (for you and your patient) to give the benefit of the doubt and just ask.

5. Repeat of #4, but for age consideration. The oldest pregnant woman to date was 66 years old. The worst that can happen is patient flattery.

6. Inform a patient that you are going to "lightly slap" their veins prior to starting an IV. Simply not telling them what you're doing can get you in a lot of trouble (this one is for Nancy D.)

7. Wear gloves with every patient. Take it from someone whose hands have touched a variety of unknown wet consistencies from the most unsuspecting of patients.

8. Get used to the naked male elderly body. Something happens to male patients over 65 years old... there is an inverse relationship with age and modesty. Even though you offer a gown, be prepared for the refusal by the patient to wear it.

9. You don't have to perform mouth-to-mouth during a code in a hospital setting. Most hospital staff will let you do this until the oxygenated amboo bag arrives, and laughter will be pointed at you for eternity after your patient has revived.

10. (for the guys) Remember your anatomy. If someone in a state of panic runs to you and asks you to get a set of sterile fallopian tubes from central supply STAT, don't fall for it. I'm one of the few who hasn't, but I've been witness to many new students who do.