MRI Technician

MRI Technicians use equipment that creates a combination of magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of the body. MRI's provide the best possible imaging technique for soft tissues and certain organs because of the dimension and contrast that is produced with the technology. While standard x-ray's produce only images of bone, MRI's can produce a much more detailed, 3-D image to view blood vessels, bones, and other internal organs.
MRI technicians have the important job of seeking out tumors, blocked blood vessels and arteries, and other life threatening problems. Use our resources to learn more about MRI technician salary, schools, certification, and more. Your future as an MRI technician starts here.

Find MRI Schools

Browse our full list of radiology schools offering MRI programs, search by radiology degree programs or search schools by state to find one near you. Use our directory to request free information.

MRI Technician Job Description

MRI technician jobs require a thorough understanding of the equipment as well as patience and compassion for their patients. During school, you will learn how to use the technology including settings such as the proper voltage and desired exposure times. Almost all MRI job descriptions highlight the need for individuals who have a high level of knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy such as the head, thorax, and abdomen. Also, as an MRI Tech, you are responsible for enforcing magnetic field safety and ensuring the best possible comfort of the patient without comprimising safety or image quality.
MRI's are notorious for bringing on anxiety and claustrophobia in patients. Your ability to keep patients at ease before, during, and after the procedure is of great importance and is the sign of a true professional. If the equipment allows, you may want to tell your patient to bring some soothing music to listen to during the procedure to take their mind away from any fear they may experience.
Here is a sample of a typical bulleted MRI job description:

• Preparing the patient for the procedure. During an MRI, the patient will need to remain still inside a narrow opening. Compassion and understanding of claustrophobia is a must in this job.
 
• Must be able to use the equipment to obtain an image of the specific area that the physician has ordered.
  
• Recording the images for viewing by the physician using patient logs; Be familiar with MRI coding systems
 
• Responsible for enforcing safety precautions at all times.
 
• Using knowledge of anatomy and physiology in order to help the physician diagnose problems.
 
• Must be able to work with others in the unit and assist with patient scheduling, follow-up, and to act as a liason with referring physicans.

The above list is by no means exhaustive of what an MRI Technician does; however, these are bullet responsibilites and requirements that are commonly listed in an MRI Tech job description.

How To Become an MRI Technician

Becoming an MRI Technician starts with a basic education in radiology. Most individuals who want to become a MRI technician, start by obtaining an associates degree as a radiologic technologist. Many schools offer additional certificate programs to specialize as an MRI technician. In addition to the school curriculum, most programs include training in real life situations with an experienced MRI technician. Another common path to becoming an MRI tech, is to start gaining experience as an x-ray technician, then go on to specialize as an MRI technician.
A Typical One Year MRI Certificate Curriculum
MRI certificates generally take nine months to a year, depending on the school you are attending. The following is a typical set of courses you could expect to take during the MRI program:

• Sectional Anatomy
• Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Physics & Instrumentation in MRI
• MRI Imaging Procedures
• MRI Pathology & Case Studies
• Advanced Procedures & Technology in MRI
• MRI Registry Review
• Clinical Series in MRI

MRI Technician Salary

MRI technicians made $61,928 on average in 2007 according to the American Medical Association. Visit our MRI Technician Salary page to get a detailed look at salaries for MRI Tech's including the average salary in major metropolitan areas. You can also see how the salary for MRI Tech's compares to other radiology professions as well as other jobs in allied health.

About MRI Technology

The benefit of using MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology) is that it allows physicians to better evaluate diseases that sometimes are not adequately assessed using other imaging methods such as ultrasound, x-ray, and computed tomography (also called CT or CAT scanning). Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions using powerful magnetic fields, radio frequency pulses, and a computer to produce more detailed pictures of the soft tissue, organs, bones, and virtually all other internal body structures. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed, or copied to a CD.
Another benefit of MRI technology, is that it does not use ionizing radiation (x rays); even though the amount of ionizing radiation used in x-ray technology is minimal and unharmful, this is often viewed as a benefit of the technology, if only to alleviate any concerns of patients.
Common Uses of MRI Technology
Some of the common uses for MR imaging are to evaluate organs of the chest and abdomen-including the heart, liver,billary tract, kidney, spleen, and pancreas and adrenal glands. Pelvic organs including the reproductive organs in the male (prostate and testcles) and the female (uterus, cervix and ovaries). Also blood vessels (MR Angiography) and the breasts.
There are also many other uses to help the physician diagnose or monitor treatment for conditions such as:

1. Tumors of the chest, abdomen or pelvis.
2. Certain types of heart conditions.
3. Dieases of the liver, such as cirrhosis, and that of other abdominal organs, including the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreatic ducts
4. Blockages or enlargements of blood vessesls, including the aorta, renal arteries, and arteries in the legs.
5. Cysts and solid tumors in the kidneys and other parts of the urinary tract as well as breast cancer and implants.
6. Causes of pelvic pain in women, such as fibroids, endometriosis and adenomyosis.
7. Tumors and other abnormalities of the reproductive organs (E.G., uterus, ovaries, testicles, prostate).
8. Suspected uterine congenital abnormalitynomalies in women undergoing evaluation for infertility.

The uses of MRI imaging are many and of great importance and comfort to physicians who want to accurately diagnose.

Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray Schools

The option to start as a Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray has become a very popular entry level one because it combines an education as a Medical Assistant with X-Ray Technician training to provide you with a well rounded set of skills.  Having both skill sets is highly sought after by employers because of the versatility of tasks they can perform in the office. As a student in Medical Assisting with Limited X-Ray, you will learn basic x-ray procedures, equipment operation, and radiation safety along with the core curriculum of medical assisting.  Many of the limited x-ray programs will prepare you for the ARRT exam; however, it is important to inquire with your schools of interest to be sure.

Find Schools

Browse our below radiology school directory for Medical Assistant w/ Limited Scope X-Ray schools or search for radiology and medical assisting programs in your state.

Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray Job Description

Medical Assistants with limited x-ray functions perform tasks which fall under three main areas of responsibility. The first is the basic patient coordination and administrative tasks. The second is the actual assisting of the physician before, during, and after exams and procedures. The third, which is outside the scope of a traditional Medical Assistant, is the x-ray and imaging duties performed. The following is an outline of what you can expect:
Patient Coordination and Administrative Tasks

• Taking vitals and documenting the information
• Describe chief issue with patient accurately with physician and conduct further assessments according to individual physician/provider expectation.
• Update patient's chart and verify demographic information, medications, allergies, etc.
• Prepare the patient and instrumentation necessary for the exam and instruct them for disrobing if necessary.
• Prepare equipment, instruments, and supplies to ensure that when the physician enters, they can efficiently care for that patient.
• Maintain patient flow and assist with evaluating the needs of arriving patients or walk-ins.

Physician Assisting

• Give patients educational materials and instructions
• Gather and communicate lab results as directed by the physician
• Schedule and coordinate any specialist appointments needed
• Maintain a "tickler" file for diagnostic test results and follow-ups
• Facilitate the processing of prescriptions, document in medical record per Clinic protocol as directed by the provider

Limited Scope X-Ray Functions

• Explain the patient for the procedure and ensure their understanding
• Assist the patient in preparing for the exam (positioning the patient)
• Provide reassurance and support to patient throughout the procedure
• Maintain x-ray safety protocols and standards.
• Perform the imaging of basic anatomical regions such as abdomen, chest, head, as well as the upper and lower extremities.
• Ensure test and imaging quality is optimal so that physician can properly make diagnoses.

Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray Salary

Position	Low	Median	High
Medical Asst w/ Limited X-Ray	$29,000	$38,000	$47,000

Salaries have a wide range depending on your geographic region, whether you are working in a metro or rural locale, your level of experience, education, and the type of facility you work in. The data above is from indeed.com and is a reflection of data across the United States.

Radiology Training

Radiology training starts with foundational courses in radiologic sciences and culminates in hands-on training and radiology externships. There is also training available for those who are already in the field and want to take their radiology training to the next level. At radiology-schools.com, we provide you with accurate and up to date information on radiology training options.

Typical Radiology Training Coursework

A solid foundation for your radiology training begins with an understanding of the the fundamentals of basic medical terminology and practices coupled with core curriculum in radiologic sciences. For a detailed look at typical radiology course work, take a look at our radiology courses page. Here is a sample of classes you will you will be taking as a radiology student:

• Anatomy & Physiology
• Medical Terminology
• Radiographic Procedures
• Radiographic Exposure & Quality Control
• Patient Care & Positioning

Radiology Externships, Fellowships, and Hands On Radiology Training

Virtually all radiology programs include hands on training to allow you to apply classroom knowledge in the real world. We have reviewed several programs for you to determine the common practices and procedures you will get an opportunity to perform during this critical period of your radiology training. Here is list of what you can expect from this part of your radiology training:

• Practice operating x-ray & radiology equipment.
• Learning how to obtain the best quality image for the referring physician to diagnose.
• Administering the correct amount of radiation using standard protocols.
• Best practices for patient positioning techniques.
• How to communicate with the client, explaining the procedure and ensuring their comfort during the exam.

Combining traditional education with radiology training in a realistic work environment will give you the confidence you need to step into a position and start your career immediately out of radiology school. Many schools have direct relationships with radiology employers who are eagerly seeking RT students to join their team. The radiology worker shortage has made it easier for students to make the transition into the working world much quicker.

Preparing for the the ARRT Exam

The ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) administers an exam that will certify you. Most states require certification through the ARRT. Most radiology certificates and degree programs will prepare you to successfully pass this exam. In fact, statistics show that over 90% of first time test takers pass the exam if they have received formal training and education. Most states require initial certification, then a re-certification every two years. You can learn more on our ARRT exam page.

Radiology Training Continued - Specializing

Most radiologic technologists choose to specialize in a particular procedure or sub-category within the field of radiology. Becoming certified to perform specific procedures will make you a more desirable job candidate and may increase your radiology salary potential. Learn more about radiology specializations and available certificates and radiology degree options to further your career. Another popular avenue for continued training is the coveted Radiologist Assistant role, which comes with significantly higher salary levels and responsibility.
Need additional radiology training information? Check out our radiology courses or radiology degrees page for further research.

X-Ray Technician Schools

If you are thinking of getting started in the field of radiology, you will need to locate x-ray technician schools near you to complete your training. X-Ray Technology is one of many used in the wider field of radiology. Becoming an X-Ray Technician is one of the quickest ways to get into the field with relatively short degree requirements. Below you will find a list of x-ray technician schools offering a variety of programs in radiology.

What to Look For in X-Ray Technician Schools

When deciding among x-ray technician schools, you will need to decide if you want to become a fully certified X-Ray Tech known as a Radiologic Technologist, or if you want to be a non-licensed X-Ray Technician. If you wish to become a certified X-Ray Tech, you will want to purse a two year degree or diploma, which will prepare you for the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) exam. When researching schools, be sure to ask if their program will prepare you for the ARRT exam. Once you have passed the exam and become registered, you may then take the title of Radiologic Technologist. If you are looking for basic X-Ray Technician positions, you may complete a certificate, associates degree, bachelors degree, or diploma and get your career started quickly. Use the button below to request information from x-ray schools near you.

Can I attend X-Ray Technician Schools Online?
Due to the hands-on nature of becoming training in x-ray technology and techniques, online programs are difficult to find. If however, you already have some experience in x-ray or a related field in healthcare, you may meet the prerequisites for online x-ray tech programs. Most of the online programs are designed for those who have been working in what is known as a "limited scope x-ray" capacity, but want to become a certified Radiologic Technologist. Often, these certificates or degrees are named "fast track radiology" programs because they assume you already have some of the basic skills and knowledge to expand on. For those who are seeking entry into the job of an x-ray technician, a campus based radiology school is the best option. You can find a full list of radiology schools or you can search for schools by state to find one near you.

Ultrasound Job Description - A Closer Look

Saving lives & helping to bring new life into being; A truly rewarding career
As an Ultrasound Technician, you are in the middle of what can be life changing situations with people. For example, if you are doing a routine pregnancy check up, and you see signs of irregularities or problems with the progress of the fetus, you've got to be very careful how you deal with the situation. Part of your ultrasound technician job description is dealing with people who are counting on you to guide them through these life changing situations. They need your complete professionalism and above all, they need your compassion and understanding.
Where do Ultrasound Technicians work?
Ultrasound Tech's work in a variety of settings from hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and physician offices. In addition, Ultrasound Tech's are needed to assist with surgeries or to perform routine pregnancy check-ups. While the tradional idea of an ultrasound technician job description is to be working in a pregnancy unit or a medial imaging lab, Ultrasound Tech's are also needed in emergency rooms to be available for imaging procedures of trauma patients who need immediate diagnoses and medical treatment.

What character traits are important for Ultrasound Technician jobs?

One common misconception about Ultrasound Tech's is that it is a simple, straightforward procedure in which you move a wand around the body and magically capture images. Many medical imaging professionals who have worked in various radiology and medical imaging procedures have indicated that ultrasound procedures can be much more complicated and take a highly developed understanding of anatomy.
You've got to be able to understand what you are looking at on the screen and how to navigate through around the inside of the body with using precision and instinct coupled with a high level of knowledge about the particular organ you are navigating. The word navigating comes up a lot with sonographers because it is just that in many cases. Navigating through a complex structure in order to get what you need so that the physician can diagnose the problem. You've got to be patient and be able to concentrate and have good hand eye coordination. All the while, you must be patient, calm, and professional with the patient.

Ultrasound Technician Job Description (sample):

Ultrasound technicians use high frequency sound waves to produce real-time visual images of organs, soft tissues, and blood flow within the body. Job duties include:

• Use of highly technical sonography equipment to produce images of structures inside the body.
 
• Placing a wand-like transducer device against the patient's skin on the area being imaged, while viewing the image on a monitor.
 
• Knowledge of how to use the equipment while viewing sound waves and frequencies in different areas of the body is important.
 
• Communication with the client, and ensuring their comfort during the procedure, which is especially important during invasive procedures.
 
• Must use good judgment when determining if the procedure was sufficient for proper diagnoses, or if additional imaging procedures are needed; Many Diagnostic Sonographers report that their job is both an art and a science and that good judgement is paramount.

Specializing in Ultrasound

As a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, you may learn how to perform a variety of medical imaging tasks using sonography technology. Some specialize in one particular area such as obstetrics and work in the pregnancy division of the hospital, for example. Others perform multiple types of ultrasound duties such as abdominal, gynecologic, or vascular sonography. The following is a description of these various roles:
Abdominal Sonography
Abdominal Sonographers specialize in imaging the organs and tissues within the abdominal area such as the liver, pancreas, spleen, gall bladder, and kidneys. With the help of doppler sonography, they can also peer into the blood vessels as well. If, for example, a blood test shows high liver enzymes, a physician may order an ultrasound of the liver. The abdominal sonographer can clearly see a liver that has enlarged as well as other abnormalities such as a tumor. If there is suspicion of abnormalities in the abdominal area, a sonographer can get a very detailed view, which will help with diagnosis.

Cardiovascular Technology
A cardiography is a sonogram of the heart, valve function, and blood flow. As technology improves, the use of 3D and 4D imagery is becoming more common. Cardiac ultrasound is the most widely used diagnostic test for heart disease. It can show the exact size and shape of the heart as well as the pumping capacity. It can also very precisely locate any damaged tissue or abnormal blood flow. For example, it can be used to determine if blood is flowing backwards into a heart valve that is not closing all the way. In addition, it can help detect coronary artery disease and to help figure out if chest pains are related to heart disease. Learn more about cardiovascular technologist schools and career options.
Obstetric & Gynecological Sonography
Obstetric Sonography focuses on the health and progress of a pregnancy. A Gynecological Sonographer uses sonographic imagery to obtain images of the female pelvic area including the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix, and bladder. Their primary concern is the proper functioning and health of these organs in the female body.
Vascular Sonography
Vascular sonography focuses on the use of the technology to view the flow of blood through the blood vessels. It can be used to evaluate blood velocity as it flows through vessels and to find blockages or other abnormalities within the flow of blood. It can be used to detect blood clots in the legs and arms and is often used to determine if a patient may need angioplasty, which is the reopening of a blocked blood vessel. It can also be used in conjunction with other procedures in which access to the blood vessels is required.
Neurosonology
Neurosonology is the subspecialty of sonography that is primarily concerned with application of the technology to the central nervous system, head, and neck. It has many uses including finding brain tumors and other abnormalities in the head region and is used to image stroke victims.
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology is the branch of ultrasonography in which the technology is applied to test on the eye. It can be used to obtain cross sectional images of the eye.

What are the Job Duties of a Radiologic Technologist?

In a Nutshell:
Radiologic Technologists, also known as Rad Tech's or RT's, assist the Radiologist physician with the process of imaging and diagnosing illness. Radiologic Technologist job descriptions include tasks such as: capturing the image, obtaining the best quality image, and ensuring the patients are comfort and safe. The RT; however, does not do the actual diagnosing as this is the function of the physician or Radiologist M.D. The Rad Tech must be able to effectively explain the procedure to the patient and be sure that they are comfortable and at ease during the procedure; however, it is very important that they do what is necessary to obtain a high quality image that will be sufficient for thorough examination by the physician and allow for correct diagnosis.
Patient Positioning:
Positioning a patient for an exam may sound simple; however, it is commonly known among RT's that patient positioning can be challenging for a number of reasons. The patients may be sick and at different levels of severity of illness. They may have trouble maintaining the position needed to get the best quality image because of their illness or simply because they are elderly or handicapped. Other reasons include patient anxiety or even anger about the possibility that they have an illness. A major part of the radiologic technologist job description is to have strength of character to work through these challenges with the patient in a calm, compassionate, and professional demeanor. After all, it is in the best interest of the patient to get the best quality images taken to aid in their road to recovery. As an RT, you will have a full understanding of the protocols and requirements of positioning depending on what the specific case warrants and what the ordering physician has requested.

To prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation during certain procedures, an RT will use protective devices such as lead shields. The amount of radiation you exposure yourself to is documented and tested on an ongoing basis to ensure that there will be no adverse side effects to you. Patients are of course, also protected from radiation exposure and there are strict protocols for the amount of radiation used depending on the type of procedure being performed. Different organs and tissues within the body have various levels of sensitivity to radiation. Rad Tech's are trained to understand this and to adjust radiation levels and precautionary measures according to radiology-info.org.
What types of Procedures and Modalities Do Rad Tech's Use?
Radiologic Technologists can operate in a wide variety of settings from emergency room and trauma assistance, bedside, or in a standard medical imaging facility. Jobs are available most commonly in hospitals and medical imaging centers, but also in physician offices, veterinary offices, and dental practices. The types of procedures performed are many and the radiologic technologist job description may vary depending upon the size and scope of the facility. Some of the most common include CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and Ultrasound (Diagnostic Medical Sonography). To view a more comprehensive resource on the various modalities and specializations, visit our radiology specializations page.

Radiologic Technologist Job Description Sample

• Patient communication and preparation including removal of garments or jewelry that may interfere with procedure and explaining how the process works.
• Positioning patients properly to obtain x-rays, CT scans, MR scans, or mammograms (see radiology categories below)
• Setting the equipment to obtain the best density, detail, and contrast of the area being imaged.
• Taking preventative steps to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation.
• Applying their knowledge of anatomy and physiology to the process in order to help the physician diagnose problems.
• Must be able to closely follow physician instructions, prepare radiography equipment, position patients, and obtain optimal images for diagnosis.
• Must be able to communicate calmly, compassionately, and professionally with all different types of patients including the elderly, ailing, and handicapped

Find Schools Offering Radiologist Assistant Programs

Browse our list of radiology schools offering a masters degree in radiologic sciences or begin on the path towards obtaining an RA designation by enrolling in a bachelors degree program in radiology.

Radiologist Assistant Job Description

As a radiologist assistant, you will work closely with a physician in a high level role, performing advanced techniques to diagnose illness. Job duties include:

• Performing pre and post procedure evaluations of the patient to a greater degree than a standard rad tech post ion in order to alleviate the time pressures of the physician.
 
• Assisting radiologists (m.d's) with invasive or complex radiology procedures.
 
• Performing fluoroscopy or non-invasive procedures under the physicians supervision.
 
• Acting as a bridge of communication between the referring physician and the radiology department. This would normally be done by the physician; however the RA position allows for this expanded duty.
 
• Performance of advanced procedures such as feeding tube placements and venous diagnostic exams.
 
• Assisting the physician with diagnosis; although the formal diagnosis must still be signed off by the radiologist m.d.

The American College of Radiology describes the Radiologist Assistant role this way:
The radiologist assistant is identified as an advanced-level radiologic technologist who works under the supervision of a radiologist to enhance patient care by assisting the radiologist in the diagnostic imaging environment.
The Radiologist Assistant is not a radiologist nor a physician assistant but rather a valuable addition to the radiology team who can enhance quality patient care by performing advanced level radiological services under the supervision of a radiologist.

Radiologist Assistant Salary

Radiologist Assistants have the highest salaries of all radiology positions with exception of radiologist m.d.'s. According to the American Medical Association, in 2008, radiologist assistants made $102,972 on average. Here's a look at RA salary at a glance:

Radiologist Assistant Salary	Low	Median	High
Radiologist Assistant (R.A.)	$90,076	$102,972	$112,615

Radiologist Assistant Job Outlook

There has been an ongoing shortage of radiologist MD's, which has been a source of great concern. Heavy workloads and average procedures performed per physician continues to grow according to recent studies. In order to alleviate the effects of this shortage, the position of radiologist assistant has been added by the ARRT.
The demand of skilled radiology assistants is very high according to the American College of Radiology and will continue to be high until the shortage of radiologist physicians can be filled. There has never been a better time to find positions paying over 100K per year in the field of radiology. Entering into a radiology masters program is not only a rewarding experience, but one that will take your career and salary level to significantly greater heights.