When it comes to providing quality diagnostic imaging services, an x-ray technician is the specialist you can count on anytime of the day. Also known as radiographers, x-ray technicians use advanced x-ray equipment and others like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in order to produce images of specific parts of the body, which will be utilized by doctors in helping them make the correct diagnosis and treatment recommendation.
It will be up to the x-ray technician to ensure that patients will undergo the process of x-ray imaging smoothly, correctly, and safely. Since x-ray equipment emits dangerous levels of radiation, an x-ray tech will need to cover exposed areas of the patient's body with protective gear such as lead shields. He must also check that the x-ray machine is positioned at the optimum height and angle over a patient's body before proceeding with the imaging process.
Often times, an x-ray technician is mistaken to be the same as a radiologic technologist - although there are some tasks they both can perform, a radiologic technologist is involved in more complex procedures. Both of them must be able to adhere to doctor's orders at all times, as well as safety SOP's in operating x-ray equipment. An x-ray technician can also be responsible for recording patient data, organize work schedules, and monitor equipment purchases.
Education and training is a must for anyone who wishes to start a career as an x-ray technician. A 2-year Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology is the program of choice of many when it comes to this career. Many schools, colleges, and universities offer training programs in Radiologic Technology, particularly those that have received accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Once you have completed an accredited training program in radiography, you may then apply for voluntary certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Being certified is among the best indications of the competency and proficiency of an x-ray technician. You will find that finding employment will be so much easier once you have acquired certification.
Due to the increasing number of population and the advancements in diagnostic imaging technology, the career of an x-ray technician is also expected to experience growth in the next few years. One can expect a salary of about $35,000 to $70,000, dictated only by the industry you work in and other significant factors. Job opportunities are pretty much overwhelming at medical and diagnostic laboratories.
It will be up to the x-ray technician to ensure that patients will undergo the process of x-ray imaging smoothly, correctly, and safely. Since x-ray equipment emits dangerous levels of radiation, an x-ray tech will need to cover exposed areas of the patient's body with protective gear such as lead shields. He must also check that the x-ray machine is positioned at the optimum height and angle over a patient's body before proceeding with the imaging process.
Often times, an x-ray technician is mistaken to be the same as a radiologic technologist - although there are some tasks they both can perform, a radiologic technologist is involved in more complex procedures. Both of them must be able to adhere to doctor's orders at all times, as well as safety SOP's in operating x-ray equipment. An x-ray technician can also be responsible for recording patient data, organize work schedules, and monitor equipment purchases.
Education and training is a must for anyone who wishes to start a career as an x-ray technician. A 2-year Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology is the program of choice of many when it comes to this career. Many schools, colleges, and universities offer training programs in Radiologic Technology, particularly those that have received accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Once you have completed an accredited training program in radiography, you may then apply for voluntary certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Being certified is among the best indications of the competency and proficiency of an x-ray technician. You will find that finding employment will be so much easier once you have acquired certification.
Due to the increasing number of population and the advancements in diagnostic imaging technology, the career of an x-ray technician is also expected to experience growth in the next few years. One can expect a salary of about $35,000 to $70,000, dictated only by the industry you work in and other significant factors. Job opportunities are pretty much overwhelming at medical and diagnostic laboratories.
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