Base Hospital radiographer Tiarne Tattingham has been garnered with CQUniversity’s prestigious ESA Medical Imaging Award presented at the annual Student Awards.
The award recognises Tiarne’s achievement for obtaining the region’s highest female Bachelor of Medical Imaging student GPA average.
Growing up in the Northern Territory playing with matchbox cars, riding motorbikes and mud car racing with family, an early memory of her dad’s fractured wrist x-ray inspired Tiarne to pursue a career in medical imaging.
“In 2009 we travelled to Adelaide to watch dad compete in the Australian Quad Bike Championships where he overshot a ramp shattering both wrists and later undergoing 12 surgeries,” Tiarne said.
“Seeing the x-rays and CT scans of dad’s wrists made the whole family squeamish but not me. I thought “that’s so cool!” and was amazed how you could view the human body.”
Tiarne developed a love of mathematics and science throughout high school which led to her undertaking a Bachelor of Medical Imaging with CQUniversity, completing several clinical placements at the Base Hospital in 2017 and 2018.
Emergency and theatre imaging have become interesting aspects since being appointed as a graduate radiographer in January while challenges such as adapting alternative imaging techniques have been an equally enjoyable part of her role.
“Where injured patients are not able to move into standard view positions, you need to think outside of the box,” she said.
“Capturing images of injuries or ailments can present some challenges but I’m always looking for ways to improve techniques while making sure patients are safe and comfortable.”
Tiarne says she had always been dedicated to her studies and was excited about being recognised with the award.
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Amie Galletly | Communications Officer| 4885 6808
