The initial impact of COVID-19 on Australasian Sonographers Part 1: Changes in scan numbers and sonographer work hours

Adapting a communication coaching intervention for obstetric sonographers delivering unexpected news: A qualitative study

Introduction

Despite widespread recognition that communicating unexpected news during obstetric ultrasound examinations is challenging, there is a dearth of research investigating how to teach evidence-based communication to sonographers. Communication Coaching is a supportive, positive method that has previously been associated with improvements in communication, patient satisfaction, and reduced burnout in clinicians. However, to date, no study has coached sonographers. This study explored stakeholders' views on a proposed Communication Coaching intervention and used these data to adapt the intervention for use with qualified obstetric sonographers.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people who have a vested interest in unexpected news delivery and thematic analysis was conducted on the data. Eight sonographers, six people with lived experience of receiving unexpected news and six representatives from third-sector organisations who support expectant parents were recruited (18 women; 2 men, aged between 21 and 75 years).

Results

Participants viewed the planned Communication Coaching intervention favourably and suggested adaptations. The two main themes were (1) the practicalities of coaching, and (2) content. The first theme had four subthemes: (a) brief and flexible structure, (b) online modality, (c) sensitive and positive coach and (d) organisational awareness. The second theme had three subthemes: (a) specific language and behaviour recommendations, (b) adaptable to different service-users and situations and (c) confer relevant emotional skills and techniques.

Conclusions

Communication Coaching could be a feasible and acceptable intervention for qualified sonographers if specific, limited adaptations are made as recommended by the stakeholders. Further evaluation of the intervention in practice is necessary.

The initial impact of COVID-19 on Australasian sonographers part 3: Sonographer professional, personal, and social wellbeing

Introduction

The wellbeing of front‐line healthcare workers can be impacted during a pandemic. This paper reports the initial impact on the wellbeing of COVID‐19 on Australasian sonographers.

Methods

An online qualitative and quantitative survey was conducted between March and June 2020 to explore the wellbeing of Australasian sonographers in the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

Whilst most sonographers felt supported at work (300/379), those working in public hospitals felt more so than those in private practice. Sonographers in private practice felt more as though their job was at risk and were more likely to consider an alternate source of income. Sonographers felt they were working on the front line and many felt anxious about themselves (74%) or family (78%) contracting COVID‐19 due to their employment. Forty‐one percent of sonographers felt more isolated than normal, with younger age groups (18‐34 years) feeling less like they had enough hobbies or selfcare activities to get them through. Twelve percent of sonographers reported never, or rarely, coping with the juggle of work and home life.

Conclusion

The initial impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the wellbeing of sonographers is evident. Longitudinal data will enable wellbeing to be tracked over time.

The initial impact of COVID-19 on Australasian sonographers part 2: Changes to sonographic examination protocols and access to personal protective equipment

INTRODUCTION

COVID-19 brought with it the requirement for healthcare workers to limit community transmission of the virus as much as possible by limiting patient contact and wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This study aimed to capture the initial adaptations to sonographic examination protocols within ultrasound departments and sonographer access to PPE.

METHODS

An online survey was used to gather data on sonographer reflections of sonographic examination protocol changes seen in their departments and access to PPE between the 11th of March 2020 and the 14th of June 2020.

RESULTS

To reduce the time sonographers spent with the patients and hence reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19, sonographers reported adjustments to sonographic examination protocols including their duration and scheduling. Access to PPE was reported as poor.

CONCLUSION

Numerous sonographic examination protocol changes were observed within ultrasound departments in Australasia in the initial response to COVID-19. Access to PPE was varied along with sonographer feelings around the impact of these changes.