X-Ray Technician
Studying radiologic technology opens the door to an exciting new career. Radiologic technicians have a thorough understanding of science and medicine that they use to care for patients in a variety of settings. After two years of training, technicians can work in diagnostic medicine, doctors’ offices, and emergency rooms as a valued member of multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Most radiologic technology students earn an associate’s degree. Some programs offer certificates or bachelor’s degrees. All programs involve classroom and clinical experience at local hospitals and offices. Students acquire a thorough understanding of anatomy with a focus on the skeletal system, and also study proper positioning, patient relations, chemistry, and physics. Most programs require a high school degree but do not have other entry requirements.
After graduating from an accredited radiologic technology program, students in most states must pass an exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. After passing, students become licensed … Read the rest
If you are interested in a highly respected medical career that is currently in demand, consider training as a radiology technician. Often better known as “X-ray techs”, radiologic techs are highly important members of medical teams and are often one of the first points of contact for patients who have not yet received a diagnosis for their illnesses.
X-rays and other imaging exams are a critical piece of diagnostic testing. The images produced by these exams help identify broken bones, growths and other abnormalities. Without x-rays, many ailments including a number of cancers, would go unnoticed and undiagnosed. In addition to x-rays, some of the procedures performed by certified radiologic technicians include MRIs, mammograms, and computed tomography. Radiologic technicians are also qualified to administer radiology treatments.
In order to properly perform diagnostic imaging exams, radiology technicians must have specialized education and training. Radiologic technology requires a comprehensive knowledge and understanding … Read the rest
Radiologic technologists and technicians use x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, mammography and computed tomography to help diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. Technicians work in entry-level positions that give them the experience they need to help them advance.
Duties
X-ray technicians follow doctors’ orders exactly as well as rules regarding how to protect themselves, their patients and co-workers from too much X-ray exposure. Technicians also help prepare patients for imaging procedures, maintain patient records and take care of equipment.
Work Environment
Radiologic technicians work in a physically demanding environment. They stand on their feet for much of the day and may help move patients. They may go to patients’ bedsides to do imaging procedures and may even travel in vans with diagnostic equipment to off-site locations.
Technicians usually work about 40 hours per week. They may also work on-call, evening or weekend hours. Some technicians work for more than … Read the rest
A radiologic technician is the person who is responsible for imaging services such as x-rays. They may also acquire training in another type of specialized imaging services such as computerized tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Using a special type of machinery, radiologic technicians help physicians with the process of diagnosing injuries and health conditions. The main duties of the technician include preparing the machinery, loading films for x-rays and developing them efficiently.
Good communication skills are an excellent characteristic to have as a radiologic technician. They interact directly with the patient and must be able to clearly explain the procedure of imaging. This may include information as to why the test is being conducted and how to correctly position the body to obtain the right imagery. Patience may also be required as patients often have many questions relating to the imaging process so technicians can expect to … Read the rest
Although most people are probably familiar with x-rays, the job of an x-ray technician, also called a radiologic technologist or radiographer, involves more than just taking pictures. This job is extremely important in the medical field. With the proper preparation and training, a career in radiology can be an exciting and rewarding job with opportunities to specialize in different fields of medical imaging.
The job of an x-ray technician basically involves taking internal images of the human anatomy according to a doctor’s specifications, for diagnosis of various medical problems. This means properly preparing patients for x-rays and knowing precisely how to operate x-ray equipment to get the most accurate images possible.
Radiologic technology training programs generally take from one to four years. The most common training is a two year associates program at a community college, university or tech school. Administrative type positions usually require a four year bachelor’s degree. … Read the rest
X-ray technicians are professionals who need to have the ability not only to empathize with their patients, but also to help them be as comfortable as possible when they are positioned, and re-positioned, under the x-ray machines. It is critical that x-ray technicians read with high comprehension, as they will be figuring out orders written by physicians. They need to have good dexterity, be detail oriented and have a solid foundation of basic math. Problem-solving is also important as x-ray technicians may be called upon to do basic repairs and maintenance of the equipment. Today, x-ray technicians also need to show computer skills in order to enter results, send and receive email, access medical information and more.
Education
Those who desire to become x-ray technicians need to choose a course of study from a college that the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology approves and accredits. Associate degree … Read the rest
