A Radiologic technologist can also be called a Radiographer. Suppose you fractured a bone; you will need the services of a radiologic technologist.
How would they help you?
They use sound waves, X-rays, and other diagnostic imagery tools to see through your internal organs, tissues, and bones.
After which, the doctor will observe the image for diagnosis and medical care.
Radiologic technologists prepare patients for tests, transport patients to the right place, use tools, and use their knowledge and skills to reduce exposure to radiation in a patient.
They use diagnostic imaging techniques like Positron emission tomography (P.E.T.) or Magnetic resonance imaging (M.R.I.) to prepare patients for tests, put them in appropriate positions, and use the necessary tools with in-depth knowledge and skill to minimize the rate of radiation to patients.
To succeed as a Radiologic specialist, one must be good at high school subjects such as anatomy and physiology, computer science, biology, chemistry, physics, and algebra.
People considering becoming radiographers should excel in math and science, communication, and deep thinking.
Read also: What Does A Cosmetologist Do?
Article Road Map
Duties Of A Radiologic Technologist
A Radiologic Technologist plays a significant role in the medical field. Radiologic Technologists work with physicians to treat patients of all ages, from infants to adults.
Their role is susceptible as the cure is only possible after doctors have given recommendations based on the results gotten from a Radiologic Technologist.
They produce X-ray images of the broken bone and deliver treatments to destroy the cancerous tumors using various types of radiation.
Radiologic specialists provide diagnostic and therapeutic care.
Doctors rely on images obtained by C.T. scans, M.R.I.s, X-rays, mammograms, sonograms, and other imaging technologies to diagnose and treat their patients accurately. It will not be possible without the work of Radiologic technologists.
Some of the duties of a Radiologic technologist include:
- Attending to patient needs during imaging procedures
- Preparing patients for imaging procedures
- Following the precise instructions regarding the areas that one must capture to obtain a quality image
- Uses computer equipment to take pictures
- Working with a doctor to examine the images and determine if more is needed
- Apply and maintain the latest radiation protection information and safety procedures
- Independent practice or assisting a licensed physician in performing procedures such as mammograms, X-ray examinations, M.R.I.s, or radiation therapy for cancer patients
- Storage and operation of imaging equipment
- Screening, evaluating, and evaluating patients
- Preparing and placing patients in place to model
- Prepare, administer, and record medical-related activities following national and organizational regulations and institutional policy.
Read also: What Does A Chemist Do? (Duties And Skills)
Areas Of Specialization Of A Radiologic Technologist
There are different areas of specialization for a radiologic technologist. Some of these include:
- Mammography
- Vascular interventional radiography
- Bone densitometry
- Cardiac-interventional radiography
- Computed tomography (C.T.C.T.)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (M.R.I.)
- Nuclear medicine
- Sonography
Misunderstandings About A Radiologic Technologist
There are some misunderstandings about a Radiologic Technologist. Some of these misunderstandings include:
They Only Take X-Rays
Many people think the Radiologic Technologists’ job description is limited to taking X-rays, but this is not true. While some may need additional training, these medical professionals have various unique options to choose from mammography, sonography, and magnetic resonance imaging.
Radiologic Technologists Are The Same As Radiologic Technicians
The work of Radiologic technologists ends after taking the image they need. Although radiologic technologist has the duty of performing M.R.I.s and taking x-rays, their involvement does not end there.
They ensure the quality of the photographs, maintain the imaging equipment and assist the doctors as they make their diagnoses.
Radiologic Technicians, on the other hand, have a broad range of activities, such as assisting physicians as they perform procedures or provide radiation therapy, among other activities.
Radiologic Technicians are primarily concerned with preparing equipment and patients with imaging procedures.
You Might Like: What Does A Registered Nurse Do
Where Does A Radiologic Technologist Work?
Doctors’ offices and clinics are the general employers of radiologic specialists. Other facilities that employ these specialists include nursing homes, outpatient care facilities, and private practice centers.
The B.L.S. states that most radiologic technologies work full-time. Some hospital employees must work outside regular business hours, including nights, weekends, and vacations. Those who work in the clinic area can expect a standard work schedule.
Radiologic Technologists also work in hospitals, medical laboratories, doctors’ offices, and outpatients. They may be working full-time, or part-time, including evenings, weekends, or phone calls.
Radiologic Technologist can specialize in and provide images in operating rooms, emergency departments, procedure suits, and special photographic departments.
Irrespective of where they work, they always wear specialized equipment/outfits to protect them from the harmful effects of radiation.
Skills Of A Radiologic Technologist
Due to the nature and sensitivity of their jobs, like working with specialized imaging equipment and radiation, Radiologic technologists must possess soft skills.
With the proper education and training, they develop the necessary skills and expertise to succeed in their career.
Some skills necessary for a Radiologic Technologist to possess include:
- Computer literacy
- Physical abilities
- Organization
- Communication
- Research
- Teamwork/collaboration
- Relationship building
- Life support
- Radiation protection
- Ultrasound
- Patient preparation
- X-rays/radiography equipment
- Patient care
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (C.P.R.)
- Quality assurance and control
- Mammography
- Patient education and instruction
- Problem-solving
- Writing
- Attention to detail
Also Read: What Does A Special Education Teacher Do?
Education Requirements Of A Radiologic Technologist
After high school, the higher education methods of radiography include completing requirements and applying for an accredited radiography program.
There are college- and hospital-based programs that can offer college degrees directly or in conjunction with major colleges and universities.
Students who have already obtained an associate degree or higher may apply for a certificate in an accredited radiography program.
Other opportunities for advanced degrees exist within the science of imaging.
Certification
After graduating from a renowned program, radiologic technologists must pass a certification examining the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (A.R.R.T.) to be accredited and registered as R.T.R.T. (R).
Depending on the living conditions, radiologic specialists may also be required to meet additional state license requirements to practice as R.T.R.T. (R).
According to A.R.R.T, you must obtain an associate degree or higher in an education program recognized by A.R.R.T to meet the educational requirement for a certification examination.
There are also ethical requirements that include displaying good manners, responsibility, and honesty.
Radiographers can also obtain specialized certificates for enhancing development opportunities.
Conclusion
Radiologic Technologists are very crucial in the medical field. They play a sensitive role in providing a basis that enables doctors and other health professionals to give professional advice.