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Career Details : Radiologic Technologists

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Description

Take x-rays and CAT scans or administer nonradioactive materials into patient's blood stream for diagnostic purposes. Includes technologists who specialize in other modalities, such as computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance.

Experience

A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Tasks

  • Operates or oversees operation of radiologic and magnetic-imaging equipment to produce photographs of the body for diagnostic purposes.
  • Operates fluoroscope to aid physician to view and guide wire or catheter through blood vessels to area of interest.
  • Administers oral or injected contrast media to patients.
  • Positions imaging equipment and adjusts controls to set exposure time and distance, according to specification of examination.
  • Monitors video display of area being scanned and adjusts density or contrast to improve picture quality.
  • Positions and immobilizes patient on examining table.
  • Explains procedures and observes patients to ensure safety and comfort during scan.
  • Assigns duties to radiologic staff to maintain patient flows and achieve production goals.
  • Demonstrates new equipment, procedures, and techniques and provides technical assistance to staff.
  • Develops departmental operating budget and coordinates purchase of supplies and equipment.
  • Reviews and evaluates developed x-rays, videotape, or computer-generated information for technical quality.
  • Monitors use of radiation safety measures to comply with government regulations and to ensure safety of patients and staff.
  • Keys commands and data into computer to document and specify scan sequences, adjust transmitters and receivers, or photograph certain images.

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    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Job-Required Social Interaction
    • Consequence of Error
    • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
    • Importance of Being Sure All Is Done
    • Special Uniform

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