Radiology Technologist
Alt Names: Radiologic Technician, X-Ray Technician, X-Ray Technologist, Radiographer, Medical Radiation Technologist,Rad Tech, R.T., Radiologic Technician, MRI Technicians
Career Description:
These professionals perform diagnostic imaging procedures (such as x-rays, MRI’s, and CT’s) as well as radiation therapy treatments
Job Responsibilities:
Operate computerized radiology equipment to take images
Protect patients from areas that do not need shielding (or are dangerous to x-ray)
Keep inventory of imaging equipment
Record medical history of patient and answer questions pre- and post procedure
Follow appropriate physician orders on what areas of the body to image
Education & Training:
Earn Associates degree (2 year college) in Radiography
Certificate programs range from 6-12 months
Important Courses:
Pathology
Anatomy & Physiology
Radiation Physics & Protection
Chemistry
Mathematics
License and/or Certification:
Radiologist Technologists MUST be Licensed or Certified in MOST states
Certification given by AART (The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists)
Salary:
Median salary: $54,340 [Source:www.bls.gov]
Who is this career for?
People who pay attention to small details
People who are good at conveying messages verbally
People who take directions well
People who wouldn’t mind having close contact with patients (in case of lifting and moving)
People who are good at working with their hands (lots of tech equipment’s are involved in this field)
Valuable Skills & Qualities:
Detail Oriented – Most critical part of being a Radiologic Technologist. RT’s have to follow strict guidelines and instructions in order to accurately treat and diagnose patients.
Interpersonal Skills – Technologists must gain trust from their patients in order for them (technologists) to accurately take images. This includes calming patients prior to taking a radiology exam.
Stamina – RT’s work on their feet for long periods of time and must be able to lift and move patients who may need their assistance.
Work Environment/ Setting:
Hospitals, Physicians’ Offices, Imaging clinics
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