I vividly recall my first ultrasound. Lying on that small exam table with my partner beside me, I found myself torn between the mesmerizing image on the screen and the technician’s expression. My excitement fluctuated based on the subtle cues I thought I detected, even though she maintained a professional demeanor throughout.
I remember asking if everything was alright, holding my breath in anticipation of her response. Relief washed over me when she confirmed that all was well and started to explain what I was seeing.
Once my partner and I left that appointment, the technician barely crossed my mind. I didn’t consider the individuals who had come before or who would follow after me.
However, a recent Facebook video by Jenna Collins, a diagnostic medical sonographer, has changed my perspective. Set to the upbeat tune “Grace Kelly” by Mika, Collins describes her job as incredible, expressing her gratitude for the chance to view fetuses in utero every day.
Then, she shifts to the heart-wrenching part of her role. On the day she posted the video—now viewed over 2.3 million times—she was faced with the tragic discovery of a 38-week fetal demise. She was the first to recognize the devastating news.
In her words, “Today I hugged a mother as she trembled with sorrow. I reassured her repeatedly that she was not at fault. I fought back tears and stayed strong until she left the room. Then, I took a moment to gather myself before meeting the next expectant mother who was eager to learn her baby’s gender.”
Collins offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of these often-overlooked professionals who must transition from moments of grief to those of joy in mere seconds. The ability to hold space for a stranger’s sorrow and then quickly switch to celebrating another’s happiness is a skill that is often underestimated.
Many of us fail to realize that the same rooms where joyous news is shared are also where difficult information is conveyed, and the individuals delivering both experiences are the same. Collins highlights the emotional demands of her profession.
In an interview with TODAY Parents, Collins explained her process when detecting an abnormality during an ultrasound. “I almost switch to autopilot,” she shared. This makes sense; she must gather crucial information for the doctor while managing her own emotions. A glance of worry from her could cause patients to panic, making it harder for her to obtain the necessary data.
Once she completes the technical aspects, she can address the emotional side. “When I’m done, I’ll reach out and touch her gently. It’s a way to connect. Then I’ll say something like, ‘Things don’t look quite how I expected, so I’m going to get the doctor.’”
“I want them to know that I’m genuine and that I care,” Collins added. “These women stay with me long after I’ve left the room.”
Despite the emotional strain of her job, Collins has remained in her position for over a decade. “You’re often the first to know when something is terribly wrong,” she remarked. “It takes a significant emotional toll, but I believe I’ve found my calling.”
Having experienced difficult news in various medical settings, I hold a special appreciation for the technicians, doctors, and nurses who have supported me during my hardest moments. Their kindness leaves a lasting impact. I hope Collins and others in her field recognize the difference their compassion makes in the lives of others.
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Summary
The article discusses the emotional challenges faced by ultrasound technicians like Jenna Collins, who must deliver both good and bad news to expectant parents. It highlights the strength required to navigate such contrasting emotions and the lasting impact of their compassion on patients.
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