When patients walk through the door for an MRI, they’re often nervous, full of questions and sometimes fearful of what’s to come. That’s where Stacey Trussell, RT(R)(MR)(CT), MRI radiology technologist at Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery Plano, shines.
“I want every patient to feel like they’re more than an appointment on the schedule,” Trussell said. “I want them to know we see them, we care about them and we’re here to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible.”
With a calm demeanor and an eye for detail, she makes each patient feels supported throughout their visit.
“Stacey is a tremendous asset to our team,” said Mark Mendes, RT(R)(MR), director of radiology, Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery Plano. “She not only brings a high level of technical skill to her role, but she also has an incredible ability to connect with patients and make them feel at ease. She truly embodies our Mission to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve.”
Read on to learn more about Trussell and how she makes patients comfortable, one scan at a time.
Describe your job. What is your workday like?
My day starts early, around 6:30 a.m. to be exact, often with my first MRI patient ready for a 7 a.m. start. As one of the first to arrive, I get the day moving by gathering forms and supplies and prepping patients. Between escorting patients through screenings, starting IVs and positioning them for optimal imaging, I’m constantly on my feet and thinking ahead.
Additionally, I’m a multimodality technologist, so some days I’ll help with CTs (computed tomography), fluoroscopies or the operating room, depending on where my assistance is needed. I also keep things stocked and order supplies, so nothing slows us down.
What is your favorite part of your job, and what is the biggest challenge?
For me, the most rewarding part is making patients feel at ease. Many of my patients are cancer survivors or those facing ongoing treatments, and I know that even small gestures — like offering a blanket or a towel over the eyes for claustrophobic patients — can make a big difference. I try to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Sometimes, I’ll sit with patients during their scan, and that extra reassurance really matters.
The biggest challenge? Scheduling. Radiology is full of moving parts, and last-minute changes can be tricky. But our team works together to get the job done every day.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
Outside of work, I’m a proud mom of six — three boys and three girls — and we love taking RV trips together. I also happen to be the family chef, always trying new recipes that I find on Pinterest. I’ve recently added Cricut crafting to my list, making custom shirts, signs and bags.
How do you do your life’s best work at Texas Health?
People may think radiology technologists simply take images, but there’s far more to it. From starting IVs to ensuring patient safety, my role is both highly technical and deeply personal. We must know anatomy for proper positioning, keep up with training and act as the eyes and ears for our radiologists. We’re also responsible for making sure every image is high quality and follows safety guidelines.
The patient’s comfort is just as important as the image quality, and a lot goes into making sure each person gets the best possible care.
What did you want to be as a kid, and how did you choose your career?
As a child, I dreamed of being famous — though now, thinking about it makes me laugh. My professional journey began in unexpected ways, starting as a receptionist and eventually a loan setup specialist in the mortgage industry. After taking time off to raise my young sons, I decided to go back to school for radiological sciences and have been with Texas Health ever since, growing my skills and making a lasting impact.
It’s been a great journey, and I’ve learned so much and find it so rewarding to care for our patients.
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