Patient Safety Champion Tyler Knickle focused on safety of patients getting x-rays

Tyler Knickle is a medical radiation technologist at Colchester East Hants Health Centre in Truro. Patient safety is always top of mind for Knickle, who was recently named one of 49 patient safety champions at Nova Scotia Health.

“Using x-ray technology, we assist physicians and other healthcare providers to get a view and understanding of inside a patient’s body when there is a cause for query or concern,” said Knickle of his role. 

When it comes to protecting patient safety, Knickle said one area of focus is to reduce or eliminate the need for repeat images due to user or equipment error. “We have the knowledge and skills to best position the patient. We sometimes use supplementary equipment such as positioning sponges to help the patient maintain position.” 

Knickle said technologists also make sure equipment is working properly by following daily quality control procedures.

Knickle and his technologist colleagues also work with the radiologist or ordering physician or nurse practitioner to modify or eliminate incorrectly ordered or unnecessary exams. “We also must make sure there is an appropriate amount of history for the radiologist to make an accurate report, as well as a physician’s signature or verbal order to confirm the validity of the exam ordered.”

Proper use of x-ray equipment is vital to patient safety too, said Knickle. “We have knowledge of medical imaging radiation, how to adjust technical parameters, exposure limitations and how to reduce exposure.”

Carly Burry, Knickle’s manager, nominated him as a patient safety champion. “He is always advocating for patients, how to improve processes, safety measures and equipment. Tyler always goes above and beyond to ensure patients are well taken care of and safe.”

Thank you, Tyler, for your commitment to patient safety!