In my work as a radiographer, I use many different digital applications and systems daily. They are related to patient examinations, imaging, and documentation of care. Lifecare is the patient information system I use. It contains patient data and medical history. All procedures are also recorded there. It allows me to check appointment times, doctors’ orders, and nurses’ notes. PACS is an imaging system that stores the images taken of patients. It can be used to view, save, and transfer images. RIS is a radiology software solution for storing and managing medical imaging information. It contains referrals for imaging studies and procedures. A radiographer must master different device software and user interfaces to ensure the imaging equipment works correctly. Email is also an important tool for daily communication. Various video conferencing platforms are occasionally used for meetings or training sessions.
YouTube
A radiographer can utilize YouTube in many ways to support their work. YouTube has a lot of videos aimed at professionals, showcasing the use of new imaging techniques, device instructions, or principles of radiation protection. For example, manufacturers’ channels offer useful and up-to-date content. YouTube can also be used to orient new employees or students by showing videos of procedures, patient positioning, or equipment usage. A radiographer can use YouTube for patient education, showing patients videos about imaging devices and how exams are performed—especially helpful for children. Radiographers could also create their own videos on how machines work or what a typical workday looks like, increasing public awareness of the profession. However, it is important to remember that not all videos come from reliable sources. Data protection must also be considered: if a radiographer creates videos, no patients or patient information may be shown.
A radiographer can use LinkedIn professionally. They can create a professional profile showing education, work experience, and any specialties. LinkedIn makes it possible to network with colleagues, doctors, other healthcare professionals, and organizations in the field.
Jodel
A radiographer can use Jodel as an anonymous discussion platform. It allows users to follow and participate in conversations about healthcare, where patients might share their experiences with imaging services. A radiographer could join discussions on workplace well-being or changes in the profession. They might also share information about different imaging modalities or other relevant topics. However, anyone can post anything on Jodel, so the content may not be reliable. Confidentiality rules must be followed—specific patient cases must never be discussed.
A radiographer can use Facebook in several professional ways. There are professional groups where colleagues can discuss, network, and share information. These groups may also offer peer support. New job opportunities are often found via Facebook. Many organizations publish information about training and recruitment on Facebook. Organizations can also create their own Facebook pages to share updates, and a radiographer could act as a content creator in this context. Still, confidentiality must always be respected—no patient information may ever be shared. Social media can also spread misinformation, so not everything should be trusted.
Evernote
A radiographer can use Evernote at work to collect, organize, and manage information. It can be a handy tool for professional development, studying, and work planning. Training and webinar notes can be saved in Evernote. Articles, guides, and links to important sources can be compiled there. Notes on work tasks can also be stored. Evernote can be used to create to-do lists and schedules, and to plan upcoming tasks. It offers ready-made templates for documenting professional development or career planning. Images can be added to Evernote as well. However, it is essential to remember that Evernote is not suitable for storing patient data.
Self-Reflection
This assignment helped me reflect on how I could use social media in my work. While I already use many digital tools in clinical practice, social media offers additional professional opportunities. It can support knowledge sharing, networking, and continuous learning. I also realized how important ethical conduct and a critical approach to online content are. The assignment showed me that although social media is often seen as a personal tool, its potential in healthcare is growing. Still, its use must always be guided by caution, ethical principles, and professional responsibility.