The radiographic image: A cultural artefact?

This article looks at the role of the radiographic images produced by diagnostic radiographers.An ethnographic study of the workplace culture in one diagnostic imaging department was undertaken using participant observation for four months and semi-structured interviews with ten key informants. One of the key themes; that of the radiographic image as a cultural artefact, is explored in this article.The radiographic image is a cultural artefact which radiographers are protective of and take ownership of. Radiographers are conscious of the quality of their images and the images are an important aspect of their work. Radiographers take criticism of their images personally. The radiographic image is a record of the interaction that occurs between the radiographer and the patient.The way in which radiographic images are viewed, used and judged is an important aspect of the role of diagnostic radiographer.