E1623. Patient-Centered Care in the Breast Imaging Department: Aiming for Patient Comfort During Imaging-Guided Breast Biopsies
Authors
Claudia Cotes;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Harnoor Singh;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Steven Lee;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Charisma Desai;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Angel Su;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Niloofar Karbasian;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Abeer Abdelhafez;
The University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston
Background
Technical aspects for performing imaging-guided breast biopsies have been widely described in the literature. However, equally as important are the non-technical skills that surround a patient's visit, which very often play an important role in the patient's comfort and satisfaction and must be displayed as early as the first in-person interaction. Radiologist-patient interaction occurs consistently in breast imaging, but these non-technical skills can be extrapolated to other subspecialties where imaged-guided procedures are performed. Although these skills are usually modeled by faculty and learned as part of the residency and fellowship curriculums, they must not only rely on each individual radiologist’s personality and bedside manner if they are approached in a systematic way. With this exhibit, the learner will be able to identify potential steps and behaviors that can improve the patient's experience during imaged-guided procedures, starting at the time of biopsy recommendation, during the procedure, and after the procedure is finalized.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
1. Understand the participants of a successful image guided biopsy. 2. Create an image-guided procedure checklist for radiologist-patient interaction before, during and after the procedure. 3. Review the importance of accurate procedure tray preparation, patient and radiologist positioning tricks during image guided biopsy. 4. Understand the importance of language skills and communication during image guided biopsies: have a script. 5. Review relaxation techniques that can be implemented during biopsies. 6. When things don't go as planned: how to communicate effectively without losing trust.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
1. Systematic approach to breast biopsies. 2. Setting the tone: At the time of diagnostic workup. 3. Reach the Zen state: Immediately prior and during the procedure. 4. Have a plan: After the procedure.
Conclusion
It is not uncommon for patients to remember the day they had a biopsy, especially if they did not have a good experience. Image-guided biopsies and the different radiologist-patient interactions involved in these procedures play a critical role in the overall patient satisfaction. Additionally, appropriate procedure planning, radiologist and patient positioning during biopsies are important, as they maximize comfort. Understanding the importance of a good radiologist-patient relationship, starting from the initial diagnostic appointment, is crucial for positive outcomes in patient experience, regardless of the pathology results. Additionally, with a systematic approach and specific objectives, radiologists can modify and enhance positive behaviors as well as guide trainees in the mastering of the skills necessary for providing patient-centered care during image-guided biopsies.
