How to Be Interventional Radiographer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 21, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Interventional Radiographers play an important role in the medical field by performing imaging-guided procedures to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. They administer contrast agents and position imaging equipment to obtain a clear image of the patients anatomy. Through their expertise in radiology, they can help deliver targeted treatments such as chemotherapy, biopsies, and embolizations.

As a result, patients benefit from accurate diagnoses and timely treatments, allowing for improved health outcomes. Interventional Radiographers work is essential in the diagnosis of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other medical conditions, and it contributes to the development of new treatments and technologies.

Steps How to Become

Complete a Bachelor's Degree Program. Prospective interventional radiographers must complete a bachelor's degree program in radiologic technology from an accredited school. These programs typically take four years to complete and include studies in anatomy, physiology and medical terminology as well as clinical experience in a hospital or clinic setting.
Meet Licensure Requirements. In order to become an interventional radiographer, individuals must meet licensure requirements in their state. Licensure typically requires completion of an approved radiologic technology program and passing scores on the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.
Obtain Certification. While certification is not required, many employers prefer to hire interventional radiographers who are certified. The ARRT offers certification in interventional radiology to those who meet the educational and experience requirements.
Gain Work Experience. To become an interventional radiographer, individuals must gain experience in the specialty. Most employers prefer candidates with at least two years of experience in the field, so it may be necessary to gain experience as a radiologic technologist first.
Consider Advanced Education. Some professionals choose to pursue advanced education in the field, such as a master's degree or Doctor of Science (DSc) degree, in order to advance their career. These programs may also prepare students for higher-level positions such as manager or supervisor of interventional radiology departments.

Interventional Radiographers need to stay up-to-date and competent in order to provide the best care possible to their patients. To achieve this, they must stay informed of the latest technology and techniques in the field, as well as keep up their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Continuing education courses, seminars and conferences are all great ways to stay knowledgeable and current in the field.

practicing skills on a regular basis and staying abreast of developments in the medical field can help Interventional Radiographers stay competent. Taking the initiative to engage in professional development activities and keeping an eye on emerging evidence-based practices will help keep Interventional Radiographers at the top of their profession.

You may want to check Veterinary Radiographer, Research Radiographer, and Pediatric Radiographer for alternative.

Job Description

Perform interventional radiology procedures such as catheter-based treatments, image-guided biopsies, and implantation of embolic agents under the guidance of a physician.
Administer contrast agent and medications as directed by the physician.
Monitor patient during procedure to ensure safety and comfort.
Document all procedures and outcomes in patients medical records.
Perform quality control checks on equipment before and after each procedure.
Monitor patients response to treatment and report any adverse reactions to the physician.
Maintain sterilization practices and infection control protocols.
Educate patients and families on procedure details and expected outcomes.
Coordinate with other health care professionals to ensure quality care is provided.
Prepare reports summarizing patient data and procedure results.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of radiological anatomy and pathology
Ability to operate and troubleshoot a variety of imaging and interventional equipment
Ability to prepare and administer contrast agents
Knowledge of radiation safety and protection protocols
Ability to follow protocols and procedures for performing interventional techniques
Knowledge of the indications, techniques, and risks associated with interventional procedures
Knowledge of infection control protocols
Ability to accurately document and record patient information
Ability to explain procedures to patients and their families
Ability to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals

Interventional radiographers are healthcare professionals who are highly skilled in the use of imaging technology to diagnose and treat medical conditions. They play an essential role in providing minimally invasive treatments to patients, and their expertise is invaluable. This skill requires specialized training and knowledge gained through experience.

An interventional radiographer must possess a wide range of knowledge and understanding, including the ability to interpret imaging results, apply advanced techniques and procedures, understand radiation safety, and collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals. they must have a strong technical understanding of equipment, instruments, and systems used in interventional radiology treatments. The importance of these skills is evident in the successful outcomes achieved by interventional radiographers in the diagnosis and treatment of many medical conditions.

Cardiac Radiographer, Radiographer Assistant, and Mammography Radiographer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in interventional radiology?
What safety protocols do you follow for interventional radiology procedures?
How do you ensure patient comfort during interventional radiology procedures?
What challenges have you faced in interventional radiology?
How do you stay up to date with the latest technology and techniques in interventional radiology?
How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals to deliver the best patient care?
How do you handle difficult situations while performing interventional radiology procedures?
What sets you apart from other interventional radiographers?
What methods do you use to reduce radiation exposure during interventional radiology procedures?
What strategies do you use to maintain accurate records and data for interventional radiology procedures?

Common Tools in Industry

Angiography Suite. A suite of imaging tools used in interventional radiology that includes angiography machines, digital subtraction angiography (DSA) systems, and digital fluoroscopy systems. (eg: GE Innova IGS 530)
Catheters. Tubular medical devices that are inserted into the body to diagnose or treat various conditions. (eg: Glidecath)
Guidewires. Thin wires that are inserted into the body to guide catheters to specific locations. (eg: Terumo Glidewire)
Contrast Agents. Substances used to make tissues and organs more visible during imaging procedures. (eg: Iomeron 350)
Ultrasound Machines. Machines used to create detailed images of internal organs and structures using sound waves. (eg: Philips IU22)
Embolization Coil Delivery Systems. Devices used to deliver embolization coils to block off blood vessels or treat aneurysms. (eg: Cook Matrix Detachable Coil Delivery System)
Stents. Devices used to open blocked arteries or vessels. (eg: Medtronic Driver Stent System)
Balloons. Devices used to expand narrowed or blocked vessels. (eg: Boston Scientific Precision Xcel PTA Balloon Catheter)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR)
American College of Radiology (ACR)
Cardiovascular Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE)
British Society of Interventional Radiology (BSIR)
Asia Pacific Society of Interventional Radiology (APSIR)
Canadian Interventional Radiology Association (CIRA)
Society of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology (SCVIR)
Radiological Society of North America (RSNA)
American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS)
European Society of Radiology (ESR)

We also have Computed Tomography Technologist, MRI Radiographer, and Radiation Safety Officer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Radiology. Radiology is a medical specialty that uses imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases.
Interventional Radiology. Interventional radiology is a specialty of medicine that uses imaging guidance to perform minimally invasive procedures.
Ultrasound. Ultrasound is a type of imaging that uses sound waves to create images of the bodys organs and structures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). MRI is a type of imaging that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the bodys organs and structures.
Computed Tomography (CT). CT is a type of imaging that uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the bodys organs and structures.
Nuclear Medicine. Nuclear medicine is a type of imaging that uses radioactive substances to help diagnose and treat diseases.
Fluoroscopy. Fluoroscopy is a type of imaging that uses X-rays to create real-time images of the bodys organs and structures.
Angiography. Angiography is a type of imaging that uses contrast dye and X-rays to create detailed images of the bodys blood vessels.
Catheterization. Catheterization is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure used to collect tissue or fluid samples from the body for examination under a microscope.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Interventional Radiographer?

An Interventional Radiographer is a healthcare professional trained to perform medical imaging procedures, such as angiography and computed tomography, to diagnose and treat diseases using minimally invasive procedures.

What qualifications are required to become an Interventional Radiographer?

To become an Interventional Radiographer, individuals must have completed a two-year post-secondary program in radiography, including courses in anatomy, physiology and physics. Additionally, certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is required.

What type of environment does an Interventional Radiographer typically work in?

An Interventional Radiographer typically works in a hospital, imaging center or other medical facility. They may also work in a research lab setting.

What are some of the duties of an Interventional Radiographer?

The primary duties of an Interventional Radiographer include preparing patients for imaging procedures, positioning patients for imaging, operating imaging equipment and monitoring patient safety during the procedure. They also communicate results to physicians and other healthcare professionals.

What is the average salary of an Interventional Radiographer?

According to PayScale, the average salary of an Interventional Radiographer is $63,124 per year. Salaries can vary based on experience, location and other factors.