Sonographers' communication in obstetrics: Challenges to their professional role and practice in Australia

Despite the clinical importance of patient-centred care in the sonographer/patient interaction in obstetric ultrasound, there has been very little current research in Australia on sonographer and sonologist communication practices in the event of an adverse finding. This study sought the views, experiences and practices of Australian sonographers, particularly in relation to adverse findings, with consideration of the implications for their professional role and practice.

Qualified and trainee sonographers who perform obstetric ultrasound were invited to complete a survey through the Australasian Sonographers Association. Using qualitative methodology, the authors developed themes on a range of issues related to sonographer and sonologist communication practices and roles from responses to three open-ended questions within the survey.

Analysis of 249 responses revealed three distinct 'Communicator types'. 'Open Communicators' confidently practice open and direct communication; 'Limited Communicators' perceived barriers preventing them from openly communicating; 'Variable Communicators' indicated various challenging 'grey areas' which created inconsistent communication practices. Variables, such as the complexity of an adverse finding and a reporting sonologist's role, attitude and level of control they exercised over sonographer communication, all influenced respondents' communication practices. Respondents believed professional bodies should agree on a standardised policy regarding sonographers' roles.

This paper highlights the complexity of the sonographer/patient interaction and outlines the difficulty in providing true patient-centred care in obstetric ultrasound.

The need for a collaborative, patient-focussed policy, which defines and recognises the role of the sonographer in the event of obstetric adverse findings, will improve the current model of care.