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.
An x-ray technician and radiologic technologist are two different job descriptions despite them working in the same department. A radiologic technologist undergoes more comprehensive training and therefore is qualified to perform more complex tasks. In any case, both of them will have to comply with a physician's orders, and observe safety precautions when operating x-ray equipment. An x-ray may also be assigned clerical work such as recording patient history and preparing work schedules.
In order to start a career as an x-ray technician, the most common route taken is a 2-year's Associate Degree program in Radiologic Technology, of which is available in various universities and colleges. It is important to note when choosing a training program in radiography that it has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
Applying for voluntary certification should be the next step following completion of an accredited training program in Radiologic Technology. Completing an accredited training program and passing a certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) are the primary requirements for certification. Acquiring certification provides a significant advantage when it comes to seeking employment.
Because of the boom in the population and advancements in radiography, the job opportunities for x-ray technicians are expected to be favorable in the next few years. With a salary range of about $35,000 to $70,000 annually, it is not surprising why many individuals are aspiring to become an x-ray technician. Medical and diagnostic laboratories continue to be the top employers for this career.
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.
An x-ray technician and radiologic technologist are two different job descriptions despite them working in the same department. A radiologic technologist undergoes more comprehensive training and therefore is qualified to perform more complex tasks. In any case, both of them will have to comply with a physician's orders, and observe safety precautions when operating x-ray equipment. An x-ray may also be assigned clerical work such as recording patient history and preparing work schedules.
In order to start a career as an x-ray technician, the most common route taken is a 2-year's Associate Degree program in Radiologic Technology, of which is available in various universities and colleges. It is important to note when choosing a training program in radiography that it has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
Applying for voluntary certification should be the next step following completion of an accredited training program in Radiologic Technology. Completing an accredited training program and passing a certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) are the primary requirements for certification. Acquiring certification provides a significant advantage when it comes to seeking employment.
Because of the boom in the population and advancements in radiography, the job opportunities for x-ray technicians are expected to be favorable in the next few years. With a salary range of about $35,000 to $70,000 annually, it is not surprising why many individuals are aspiring to become an x-ray technician. Medical and diagnostic laboratories continue to be the top employers for this career.
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