Caregivers

For the Ultrasound Technician

Suggestions from Share Parents...

Even though diagnosis is not good, point positive features i.e. hands, feet, and face.
Allow partner to be with patient.
If patient arrives without support person, attempt to find him/her before beginning.
Educate all ultrasound techs and radiologists about the challenges of these losses.
Offer ultrasound pictures/video at the time or let them know the pictures are available later.
For repeat ultrasounds, please allow the same tech to assist us.
Do not give false hope/information.
Provide a private place for delivery of diagnosis.
If you know the outcome is poor, ask the patient if she would like to view the screen or not. Don’t assume she will not.
If we request to see the radiologist, please allow this.

Comments from Share Parents...

My husband was able to see the screen but I was not able to see it. Our baby died later that day and I regret not having that opportunity.
My ultrasound picture is the only evidence I have of my baby’s existence. I am so grateful.
My ultrasound picture is the only memory of my daughter alive. It is wonderful.
My subsequent ultrasounds with the same tech allowed more freedom to discuss the problem. The diagnosis had been made and we had received information so he talked more freely.
When someone calls for the need of an ultrasound picture for a memento, know how much courage that call took.
When we ask simple questions like “Is that the head, please answer us”.
My tech provided me with a washcloth for my tears, which meant a lot.
It is OK to cry with us.
When delivering bad news, please provide a private place.
I wish this had been said, ”I am sure you are nervous and want to know every detail of what I am seeing, but remember as much as I want to tell you everything, I’m not allowed to reveal any information to you. I will take a good look at your little one and go over the scan with the doctor. He/she will return, let you know what was found and will answer your questions”.
Make sure we are safe to drive home or to the doctor’s office.
The compassion I received from my ultrasound tech really helped.