My Other Life: Devonné Franks, MRI technologist

Devonné Franks’ two careers couldn’t be more different. “Instead of making people feel good about themselves and look beautiful, I worry if I’m going to find something on their exam,” say Franks, who works as an MRI technologist in a hospital in Lima, Ohio, and also does nails at Shear Brilliance in Delphos. “MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. I take very detailed pictures of the various parts of the body using magnetic energy and radio frequency waves. It’s a safe way to examine the internal structures of the body without using radiation. I bring the inside out, so to speak.

“I love working in the hospital setting, but it can be stressful,” says Franks, who earned an associate’s degree in Applied Sciences in Medical Imaging to be able to do X-rays, then followed that up with a year of on-the-job training specifically for MRIs. “I see patients who are very sick, some with incurable diseases. I always remember those patients as I tend to get to know them over time.”

Her job as an MRI technician means a steady paycheck (and benefits!), but also a whole lot more.

“I take a lot of pride in knowing I’m giving my patients the best care I can and my full attention,” she says. “Our patients are scheduled to be moved through pretty quickly, but I spend as much time as I need to explain the test thoroughly, answer any questions they may have, and get them comfortable. Claustrophobia is a major problem with MRI. The scanner is also very noisy; it sounds like a jackhammer. If they know what to expect it’s a lot easier for them to relax. 

“Each person is different and I treat each patient how I would want to be treated.”