Inventiveness

Inventiveness is important because it encourages creative thinking and produces innovation across various fields. Radiographers often need to troubleshoot technical issues, adapt imaging techniques for diverse patients, and contribute to improving diagnostic practices, making inventiveness a crucial quality to possess. Throughout my course, I have developed this quality by engaging in problem-based learning activities and clinical simulations that required creative thinking and adaptability.

During one of my clinical placements, I noticed that many patients came from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and communication barriers sometimes made it challenging to explain radiographic positioning instructions clearly. Recognising the impact this had on patient comfort and workflow efficiency, I took the initiative to create a simple, innovative solution to support both patients and staff.

I compiled a set of basic radiographic positioning instructions translated into Tagalog, my native language, Mandarin and Hindi - languages that I regularly encountered during my placement. I ensured the phrases were short, useful and clinically appropriate, such as instructions for breathing and holding still. I then shared these notes with my supervisors and fellow students, while demonstrating the correct pronunciation, so that they could use the notes when interacting with non-English-speaking patients. This resource reduced confusion during examinations, improved patient comfort, and enhanced efficiency by minimising repeated explanations and potential re-takes.

Creating this tool demonstrated inventiveness by applying my cultural knowledge and communication skills in a new way to address a practical problem that improved patient care. This experience exemplified the graduate quality of inventiveness by showing how initiative and creativity can enhance clinical practice. By identifying a gap and implementing a simple yet effective solution, I contributed to better patient interactions and supported colleagues in delivering inclusive, tailored, high-quality care.

Evidence and References

Evidence

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Reference

The University of Sydney. (2022). Graduate qualities. https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/graduate-qualities.html