To x-ray or not to x-ray...that is the question.

Today was the first time that I have ever had a patient refuse x-rays. It kind of caught me off guard for a minute. X-rays are so beneficial and are a standard of care that I am not used to people turning them down. I gave my patient the "run-down" on why x-rays are important. Telling her the benefits was like second nature to me. Radiographs are so important in what we as hygienists do, that I was probably a little over-bearing to my patient about the importance of them. She ended up changing her mind and consenting to get the x-rays taken, and I kind of felt bad about talking her into them, which is crazy!! I should be glad that I informed her about the importance of regular x-rays. I may have potentially saved her life! (not that that is very likely at all, but you never know) She was a very interesting lady, to say the least. I am glad I got this experience. I remember in first year clinic passing off a PE to Prof Costley where she had refused x-rays and I informed her of their importance and she ended up changing her mind so quickly. I thought, "well that was easy." But, today it took a little more convincing to persuade my patient away from the "dark side." hahaha. I hope that I don't feel bad about it next time.