The job of Radiologic Technologists is to take X rays and evaluate non-radioactive materials into patients' bloodstreams for the purpose of diagnostic. Radiologic technologists are known as radiographers. They create X ray films of human body parts. They use these films to identify diagnosing medical problems.
The work of a radiologic technologist is to prepare patients for radiologic exam. They prepare patients by removing jewelry, explaining the procedure, and other objects through which X rays are not passed. They position the patients in a proper way so that their body is radiographed aptly.
In order to avoid unnecessary revelation to radiation, these professionals surround the exposed area using radiation protection devices such as limit the dimension of the X ray beam and lead shields. The responsibility of a radiographer is to place radiographic equipment at the proper height and angle over the right area of a patient's body. They may measure the thickness of the area using measuring tape. Radiologic technologists set controls on the X ray machine in order to create radiographs of the proper contrast, details, and density.
Their work is to position the X ray films under the patient's body part to be assessed and make the exposure. Consequently, they remove the film and then develop it. Radiologic technologists should follow physicians' orders accurately and verify regulations pertaining to the use of radiation to protect patient, themselves, and co-workers from unnecessary exposure.
Apart from operating equipment and preparing patients, radiologic technologists maintain and adjust equipment and keep patients' records. Sometimes, they may prepare work schedule, direct a radiology department, evaluate purchase of equipment, etc. A radiographer who has an extensive experience in this field may execute more complex imaging procedures. For example, they may allow the radiologist to observe soft tissues in the patient's body by instructing patients to drink a solution of contrast medium.
Some of the radiographers specialize in computed tomography. They are sometimes called CT technologists. The work of CT scan is to create ample amount of cross sectional X rays of the specific part of a body. The CT requires the same precautionary measures as it uses ionizing radiation.
Radiographers may specialize in Magnetic Resonance Imaging just like the MR technologists. An MR like CT creates cross sectional images in order to produce three-dimensional image. MR uses non-ionizing radio frequency to produce image contrast. Some radiographers may specialize in mammography. The work of mammographers is to use low dose X ray systems to produce images to the breast.
Apart from radiologist technologists, others who perform diagnostic imaging procedures may comprise of diagnostic medical sonographers, cardiovascular technicians and technologists, and nuclear medicine technologists.
Candidates who wish to get into this field need to have good stamina. Because technologists spend ample amount of time on their feet and they may move, lift, and turn disabled patients. Radiologic technologists need to work at diagnostics machines and perform some activities at patients' bedsides. Some radiologic technologists need to travel to patients using vans that are well equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment.
Radiologic technicians may have to face hazards. However, hazards can be minimized by means of using gloves, lead aprons, and other shielding devices. Technologists need to wear badges to measure radiation levels in the radiation sphere. Many full-time radiologic technologists work forty hours a week. However, they may need to work on weekends, evenings, and on call hours. These professionals have to carry out following responsibilities.
Many vocational technical institutes, universities, colleges, and hospitals allow candidates to prepare for this position. Some hospitals hire many radiologic technologists. Candidates who have completed formal training are preferred by employers. A two-year associate degree program is most prevalent. Radiographers or individuals who are from other health professions such a registered nurses and medical technologists may pursue a one-year certificate program.
Radiologic technologists who have completed a bachelor's degree or master's degree may be helpful for administrative, supervisory, and teaching position. After completing required education, candidates may get into outpatient care centers, diagnostic imaging centers, offices of physicians, and diagnostic and medical laboratories.