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

Sep 18, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The effects of a Pediatric Radiographers job are huge, as they are responsible for taking care of the imaging needs of children. This requires an in-depth understanding of the anatomy and physiology of children, as well as the ability to interact with them in a professional yet friendly manner. Their responsibility is to perform imaging tests that provide accurate diagnosis and treatment for pediatric patients, as well as providing emotional support and comfort to them during the procedure.

As a result, Pediatric Radiographers need to be highly skilled in working with both children and their families, as well as having excellent technical skills in order to properly interpret and report the results of imaging tests. they must be proficient in using the latest technology and equipment to guarantee the highest quality of care for their patients.

Steps How to Become

Complete High School
Take Math and Science Courses. Take courses in math and science, such as biology, chemistry, physics and algebra, during high school to build a strong foundation for a career in pediatric radiography.
Obtain a Degree. Complete an associate's or bachelor's degree in radiologic technology from an accredited college or university. Most programs require two to four years of study and include clinical experience.
Obtain Licensure. After completing an educational program, you must obtain licensure from the state in which you plan to work before you can practice pediatric radiography. Each state has its own requirements for licensure, so check with your state's department of health for specific regulations.
Obtain a Certification. Although certification is not mandatory, it is highly recommended in order to increase your chances of obtaining employment and earning higher wages. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification in pediatric radiography. To become certified, you must pass both a written and clinical exam.
Get Experience. After becoming certified, gain experience working with pediatric patients through volunteer work or internships. You may also need to complete continuing education courses to remain certified.

The best way to ensure you hire a reliable and qualified Pediatric Radiographer is to research their experience and qualifications. Start by checking for any certifications or specializations they may have, as well as any relevant experience in the field. It is also important to ask for references from previous employers and colleagues, so you can get a better understanding of the radiographers work ethic and professionalism.

Furthermore, it can be beneficial to find out what type of equipment they are familiar with, as well as any specific protocols they may use when performing procedures. Finally, make sure to get feedback from patients or parents who have worked with the radiographer in the past. By researching and verifying qualifications and experience, you can be sure to make an informed decision when hiring a reliable and qualified Pediatric Radiographer.

You may want to check Orthopaedic Radiographer, Teaching Radiographer, and MRI Radiographer for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare and position patients for imaging studies and apply immobilization devices as needed.
Operate X-ray and CT equipment to produce radiographs and other images of pediatric patients.
Prepare contrast media and administer contrast media injections according to established protocols.
Monitor patients during exams to ensure safety and comfort.
Communicate with physicians and other healthcare personnel to ensure proper patient care.
Maintain records of patient imaging studies and related data.
Process images for viewing or printing.
Monitor and maintain imaging equipment performance and make minor repairs as necessary.
Maintain radiation safety protocols for each patient.
Follow all departmental policies and procedures when performing procedures.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology related to pediatric radiology
Ability to accurately position patients for imaging
Knowledge of radiation safety protocols
Ability to read, interpret, and explain images
Knowledge of pediatric-specific imaging techniques and equipment
Knowledge of pediatric radiologic procedures and protocols
Ability to communicate effectively with pediatric patients and their families
Ability to troubleshoot and maintain imaging equipment
Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to medical emergencies
Ability to document patient information accurately

Being a pediatric radiographer requires a high level of knowledge and skill. An effective radiographer must have strong communication skills, as they interact with both children and parents. They must also be able to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations, and have an understanding of the safety protocols for working with radiation.

Being detail-oriented is also essential; radiographers need to be able to operate sophisticated equipment to ensure accurate results. In addition, they must have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to think quickly on their feet. The combination of these skills allows radiographers to provide quality care to their young patients while maintaining their safety.

As a result, pediatric radiographers are an essential part of the healthcare team and are vital in helping diagnose and treat illnesses in children.

Radiation Safety Officer, Diagnostic Radiographer, and Cardiac Radiographer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with pediatric patients?
How do you handle difficult or emotional pediatric cases?
What methods do you use to explain the procedure to pediatric patients?
Describe a time that you had to work around a difficult situation with a pediatric patient.
Tell me about your experience working with parents and other family members of pediatric patients.
Do you have experience with taking back-up images in pediatric cases?
What techniques do you use to ensure radiation safety for pediatric patients?
How do you handle pediatric patients who are in pain or uncomfortable during the imaging process?
Describe your approach to keeping children still during imaging procedures.
What qualities make a good Pediatric Radiographer?

Common Tools in Industry

X-ray machine. A device used to capture images of the inside of the body. (eg: chest X-ray)
Ultrasound machine. A device used to generate sound waves that bounce off body structures and create an image. (eg: abdominal ultrasound)
CT scanner. A device used to take multiple x-ray images from different angles of the body. (eg: head CT scan)
MRI scanner. A device used to take images of the body using magnetic fields. (eg: brain MRI)
Fluoroscopy. A device used to capture real-time images of the body. (eg: barium swallow)
Digital radiography system. A device used to capture and store digital images of the body. (eg: digital chest X-ray)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR)
American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
Association for Medical Imaging Management (AHRA)
American College of Radiology (ACR)
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP)
International Society for Pediatric Radiology (ISPR)
American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM)
American Association of Radiologic Technicians (AART)
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (SDMS)
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

We also have Research Radiographer, Ultrasound Radiographer, and Computed Tomography Technologist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Radiography. The process of using X-rays to create images or radiographs of the internal structure of the body.
Pediatric Imaging. Imaging techniques used to diagnose and treat conditions in children.
Radiation Safety. Measures taken to protect individuals from the harmful effects of radiation exposure.
Contrast Media. Materials used to enhance X-ray images and improve diagnosis of certain medical conditions.
Radiation Therapy. Treatment of cancer and other diseases with radiation.
Ultrasound. High-frequency sound waves used to create images of the internal organs and structures of the body.
CT Scan. Computerized tomography scan that uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the body.
MRI Scan. Magnetic resonance imaging scan that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pediatric Radiographer?

A Pediatric Radiographer is a healthcare professional who specializes in the use of imaging technology to diagnose and treat pediatric patients. They use x-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds and other imaging techniques to diagnose and monitor the health of children.

What qualifications are needed to become a Pediatric Radiographer?

To become a Pediatric Radiographer, individuals must have a minimum of an associates degree in Radiologic Technology. In addition, most employers prefer applicants who have completed a formal radiography program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

What are the job duties of a Pediatric Radiographer?

The job duties of a Pediatric Radiographer include preparing patients for imaging examinations, operating imaging equipment, positioning patients for the most accurate images, evaluating images for diagnostic quality, maintaining patient safety protocols, and communicating with physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding patient care.