Addressing the communication needs of cancer patients for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) investigations-A phenomenological study on the experiences of MRI radiographers.

INTRODUCTION: A higher demand in MRI services could increase the pressure on MRI departments to increase scanning efficiency. This presents the risk of downplaying person-centred care especially for cancer patients with increased communication needs that result from anxiety associated with the nature of their disease. This study explored the experiences of MRI radiographers in addressing the communication needs of cancer patients attending for MRI examinations. METHODS: The study adopted a descriptive phenomenological methodology. Single contact interviews were conducted on eight MRI specialist radiographers, and these were recorded and transcribed using Microsoft Teams conferencing platform. Thematic analysis of the transcribed data was done through an inductive approach, breaking down the data into meaningful codes and thereafter, into themes and sub-themes. RESULTS: Common themes generated from the interview data included: identified communication needs, approach to communication needs, support for radiographers and factors affecting communication. Experiences of MRI radiographers indicated increased communication needs in anxious cancer patients and approaches adopted in addressing these were mainly through listening and use of empathetic gestures. Some radiographers admitted to using "blocking" strategies to avoid being drawn into emotionally exhausting conversations. Both intrinsic factors such as radiographers' personality and experience; and extrinsic factors such as time constraints, demanding workload, inadequate staffing, and skill mix were noted to influenced MRI radiographers in addressing these communication needs. CONCLUSION: Cancer patients can present with communication needs due to anxieties related to their disease. For the radiographer to deal with these needs, adequate support is needed, and necessary steps taken to address the identified influencing factors. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: MRI departments should encourage enabling environment and services that address communication needs of patients with cancer.