How do I explain to my patient how and why we are doing a mammogram, and give them reassurance?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for guidance on how to explain the mammogram procedure to a patient, including the reasons for it and how to reassure the patient.
Answer
A mammogram is an X-ray to screen for breast cancer. Explain the process, address concerns about discomfort and radiation, offer support, and inform them about receiving results.
Explain that a mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts used to screen for breast cancer, especially early detection. Describe the process, and encourage asking questions. Address concerns about discomfort or radiation risk by explaining the compression is brief and necessary for good images, and the radiation exposure is minimal. If the patient is particularly nervous, acknowledge their feelings and offer support. Make sure the patient knows when and how they will receive the results.
Answer for screen readers
Explain that a mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts used to screen for breast cancer, especially early detection. Describe the process, and encourage asking questions. Address concerns about discomfort or radiation risk by explaining the compression is brief and necessary for good images, and the radiation exposure is minimal. If the patient is particularly nervous, acknowledge their feelings and offer support. Make sure the patient knows when and how they will receive the results.
More Information
Reassurance and clear communication can significantly reduce patient anxiety related to mammograms.
Tips
Some patients may feel anxious about pain during the procedure. Be empathetic and explain that while there may be some discomfort due to compression, it's brief and necessary to get the best possible images. Also, some women worry about the radiation exposure from mammograms. It can be helpful to explain that the level of radiation is very low.
Sources
- Mammogram Procedure | Johns Hopkins Medicine - hopkinsmedicine.org
- Mammogram - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
- Mammogram: What It Is, Purpose, Procedure, Results & Types - my.clevelandclinic.org
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