For those persons interested in a career in the medical field, a radiology technician job may provide the excitement desired. Included in this article are the different types of jobs available and the requirements. Decide which career is right for you.
Job description
If you have ever gotten an X-ray or an ultrasound then you know what a radiology technician is. Radiology technicians are trained to use a wide variety of machines such as X-ray machines, ultrasound machines, positron emission scanners, and various other types of machines to record pictures of the structures of the human body. The data from these pictures is converted to image form and the technician is the one in charge of developing the images. A physician who uses them in diagnosing illness and disease then reviews the images.
Some positions within the field of radiology technology are highly specialized, dealing with specific high tech equipment and scans. All radiology technicians deal directly with patients, as part of their job description is to prepare and position the patient for the test in order to obtain ultimate quality images.
Radiology technicians also set up the X-ray machines and equipment and prepare the room with safety factors in mind. The room must be sealed properly and lead shields must be used. Radiology technicians receive training in these safety measures during their radiology technician school training.
Radiology technicians must have a high degree of professionalism as they work with doctors, nurses, and other health care personnel. The radiology technician is the person with whom doctor’s offices speak when they wish to schedule imaging exams in order to convey specifics about the types of tests to perform. The technician is solely in charge of the quality of the images that are obtained in the procedure. Poor quality images can necessitate the repeat of the procedure and additional expense for both the patient and the facility in addition to the possible health risks for the patient from the delay in diagnosis.
Some radiology techs work with specific types of procedures such as ultrasounds. Ultrasound machines work by sending sound waves through the body, which bounce off tissues, transmitting sound back to the machine in the form of images. In some instances, the technician is trained in the interpretation of the image and will assist the physician in reading the images and diagnosing and treating the patient’s illness.
Requirements of the Job
In the modern day world, X-ray technicians are in high demand and jobs are plentiful. Demand will continue to increase as the population ages and more sophisticated imaging exams are being performed than have been in the past. Technicians are required to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. In addition they must successfully complete a radiology technician-training program. Training programs most usually are two to four years in duration and are a part of collegiate programs or hospitals and clinics.
Types of Radiology Technician Jobs
Radiology technicians perform their jobs under a wide range of conditions. Traveling radiology techs work as extra staff in hospitals or clinics that are shorthanded, staying a few months in each location. Radiology technicians may also work in doctors offices, clinics, laboratories, or nursing homes. The type of radiology that you decide to practice is wide open and up to you.
Medical technology is advancing the radiology field quickly and there has never been a better nor more interesting time to get involved. With the current shortage of qualified personnel and the increased demand salaries are respectable and finding a job is easy as many hospitals are eager to hire new graduates. With a radiology technician job you can give yourself a chance to shine in a whole new way.
Resources
Simmons, Michelle. "A Closer Look at Radiology Technician Jobs - Free Online Library." News, Magazines, Newspapers, Journals, Reference Articles and Classic Books - Free Online Library. 13 Dec. 2007. 19 Oct. 2009 <http://www.thefreelibrary.com/A+Closer+Look+at+Radiology+Technician+Jobs-a01073778502>.
Melissa Slate - Melissa Slate has been a registered nurse for over 15 years. She has enjoyed many different functions in nursing, but her primary ...
