Jessica Turner

My role is very varied as I work across all areas of radiology, so each day is different. In each area I undertake a multitude of clinical and administrational tasks and support the radiographers and sonographers in any way I can. 

The biggest part of my role is reassuring and helping patients during their scans, as many children can be quite nervous and/or upset. I use many ways to gage their attention and take their mind off things, whether that be distracting babies/toddlers with toys and sensory lights; playing games with children, chatting about school or rewarding them with bravery certificates I created (which are now used daily) if they sit still. Taking the time to build a rapport with each patient is crucial as it supports the radiographer/sonographer to get the best images possible and helps to eliminate distress in the patient. Without an extra pair of hands to support, examinations that require children to be still can be challenging.

I always wanted to be a paramedic when I was younger, but unfortunately I didn’t have the opportunity to gain the qualifications needed. This job allows me to learn new things every day and gives me the fundamental skills and experience needed to pursue various different careers in the NHS. I have always been a caring person and enjoy looking after people, particularly children. I wanted a job where I would be able to do this, but also be able to progress, develop and learn whilst working on the job.

My managers are keen for me to start a radiography apprenticeship. This apprenticeship is not usually offered in paediatrics, so it has been a struggle to figure out the logistics of running this apprenticeship in our department, but we are working together to get the ball rolling!

I am most proud of the difference I have made in my department in such a short space of time. I feel that I have a very positive impact on my team and boost moral significantly when times are very challenging due to staff shortages.

This is a fantastic role in a career that has the potential to branch off in many different directions. It is a very rewarding job, knowing that I am making a difference to the children that I see daily, gives me great job satisfaction.