Radiologist technicians care for patients, examining and interviewing them to determine if and when a radiological examination- x-ray or magnetic resonance imaging- are required. Read on to learn about the job description, educational requirements, and job outlook for radiologist technicians.
Career Profile for a Radiologist Technician
A radiologist technician takes patient X-rays and administers non-radioactive materials to patients to determine if they have an illness. While performing these duties, radiologist technicians must maintain their own and patient safety. They may also update patient records and perform associated clerical duties, including scheduling and maintaining paperwork for office machinery. These individuals may need to be certified or licensed by their respective state boards; licensing requirements vary and may include the completion of an accredited training program or a certification exam.
Radiologist Technician Specializations
Specializations within the field include computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Some experienced radiologist technicians conduct fluoroscopies, whereby they administer a solution of contrast medium that the patient drinks so that a physician can see the patient's soft tissues.
Professional Certification Requirements
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certifies radiologist technicians who have completed an accredited degree program in radiography (
www.arrt.org). The radiography certification includes didactic and clinical competency requirements, including demonstrating proficiency in general patient care and radiologic procedures such as foot, spinal and skull scans.
Educational Requirements for Radiologist Technicians
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that students may look to 2-4 year certificate, associate's or bachelor's degree programs in radiologic technology (
www.bls.gov). Associate programs, the most popular according to the BLS, prepare students to take the ARRT radiographer examination. Required courses include medical ethics, radiology physics and multiple clinical radiography sessions to gain hands-on experience with the radiologic equipment. Students learn about patient care, protection from radiation and image evaluation.
Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science
Bachelor's degree programs provide instruction on the physiology and radiation therapy. Other required courses allow students to participate in research, clinical rotations and radiological imaging. Students may also learn to archive x-ray films and apply health laws related to medical imaging.
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