Experiences of community service radiographers during their transition into the workplace within the eThekwini District

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Community service diagnostic radiographers have high professional expectations, but their initial workplace experiences often deviate sharply from these. As they transition into the workplace, they may experience a myriad of negative events, and these have a greater individual impact when experienced during the fragile transitional phase. Negative early career experiences may lead to reduced quality output, and eventual attrition from the already short-staffed profession. In South Africa, no studies have been carried out that detail the transitional phase in the careers of radiographers. Understanding the professional transitional phase as detailed by community service radiographers may help to address their needs, which can assist in shaping support structures for future community service radiographers. This may ultimately assist in radiographer retention within hospitals for the benefit of patients and the healthcare industry. AIM To explore and describe the lived experiences of community service radiographers during their transition into the workplace, in order to ensure improved transitional experiences for future community service radiographers. METHODOLOGY Criterion sampling was used to select five hospitals within the eThekwini District. From these hospitals, seven community service radiographers were interviewed, using a phenomenological approach. Face-to-face, one-on-one interviews were conducted by means of semi-structured questions, and the obtained data was transcribed verbatim. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was then employed to identify themes. FINDINGS Thematic analysis of the transcribed interviews revealed three main themes, namely reality shock, work environmental factors, and adaptation. Reality shock affects workplace retention, and needs to be minimised. The environment should meet participants’ expectations and learning needs for them to be satisfied. Lastly, research participants suggested that formalised support, and prior exposure to institutions could help facilitate a smooth workplace adaptation. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Minimising reality shock and ensuring that institutionalised support is available are essential measures required to ensure a smooth workplace adaptation and ultimately improve radiographer retention. Universities, students, and the Department of Health need to join forces to help ensure that community service radiographers integrate smoothly into the workplace.