How to Be Radiologic Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 15, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Radiologic Technicians play a key role in medical diagnosis and treatment. By producing high-quality images of the body, they help physicians in diagnosing and treating injuries and illnesses. This is accomplished by using specialized techniques to capture X-ray images of bones, organs, and other parts of the body.

The accuracy of these images is essential to the success of physicians in their treatments. As a result, Radiologic Technicians must be highly skilled and knowledgeable in the use of sophisticated imaging equipment, radiation safety protocols, and anatomy to ensure that the images produced are of the highest quality. Radiologic Technicians must be able to effectively communicate with patients and other healthcare professionals to ensure that all images are captured accurately and efficiently.

Steps How to Become

Earn a High School Diploma or GED. Most radiologic technician programs require a high school diploma or GED and successful completion of college-level courses in math, science and English.
Earn an Associate Degree. Radiologic technology programs are offered at the associate degree level, which usually takes two years to complete. These programs include courses in topics such as radiobiology, radiation protection, medical terminology, patient care and imaging procedures.
Pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Examination. After successfully completing an accredited program, you must pass the ARRT certification examination to become a radiologic technician.
Obtain a State License. Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally require successful completion of the ARRT exam and meeting any other state-specific criteria.
Pursue Continuing Education Credits. Radiologic technicians must typically obtain and maintain continuing education credits to maintain their ARRT certification.

Radiologic Technicians are responsible for performing diagnostic imaging procedures, such as x-rays and CT scans, which are essential for diagnosing and treating medical conditions. Becoming a reliable and competent Radiologic Technician requires a combination of technical knowledge and expertise, strong communication skills, and a commitment to patient safety. Education and certification play a major role in obtaining the necessary skills to be successful in the field.

Courses in physiology, anatomy, and radiology must be taken in order to become certified in the profession. continuing education is necessary to stay up to date on the latest medical imaging technology and safety protocols. A Radiologic Technician must also possess interpersonal skills in order to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.

By having a combination of these qualities, Radiologic Technicians can ensure that they provide accurate diagnostic imaging procedures and maintain the highest level of patient care.

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Job Description

Perform radiologic imaging examinations and procedures according to established protocols, including C-arm fluoroscopy, mobile radiography, and computed tomography.
Prepare and position patients for radiologic procedures, including setting up and adjusting imaging equipment for optimal imaging and patient comfort.
Operate radiologic equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes, including adjusting controls to set exposure time and distance and selecting anatomical and technical positioning parameters.
Monitor and record patient safety protocols, such as time limits for exposure to radiation and patient positioning.
Perform basic clinical tasks under the direction of a medical professional, such as collecting patient information, preparing patients for procedures, and relaying instructions from the radiologist.
Explain procedures to patients to reduce anxiety and obtain cooperation.
Evaluate images for technical accuracy and conformance to established diagnostic standards.
Prepare or maintain records of patient care, condition, progress, or problems to report and discuss observations with a physician or other health care provider.
Maintain radiation safety measures such as using lead shielding and selecting exposure factors used in radiographic procedures to minimize radiation exposure to patient and staff.
Maintain film library, file system, and radiologic equipment to ensure proper functioning of equipment and availability of films for interpretation.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
Knowledge of radiology procedures, techniques, and equipment
Ability to prepare patients for X-ray examinations
Ability to operate diagnostic imaging equipment
Ability to explain procedures to patients
Ability to recognize errors or issues with imaging equipment
Ability to accurately measure, record, and interpret radiologic data
Knowledge of radiation safety protocols
Knowledge of medical terminology
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to use computer software for patient documentation, data management, and image manipulation
Attention to detail and accuracy
Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to follow instructions and established protocols

Radiologic Technicians are medical professionals who use imaging technology to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Their expertise is critical in the medical field, and the most important skill they must possess is the ability to operate complex medical imaging equipment. This requires a thorough understanding of the technology, including its proper set-up, operation, and maintenance.

Furthermore, technicians must possess excellent communication and problem-solving skills in order to effectively converse with patients and healthcare professionals, making sure all needs are met. a high level of concentration and attention to detail is essential, as mistakes can have serious consequences. Lastly, radiology technicians must have a strong base of knowledge in anatomy and physiology, providing them with a better understanding of the images they are producing.

All of these skills are required for a radiologic technician to fulfill their role and be successful in the medical field.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a radiologic technician?
How do you stay up to date with advances in radiologic technology?
What do you think makes a successful radiologic technician?
Describe a time when you had to prioritize multiple tasks in a high-pressure setting.
What is the most challenging case you have been involved in as a radiologic technician?
How do you ensure accuracy in your work?
How do you handle difficult patients and/or families?
What safety protocols do you follow when working with radiologic equipment?
How do you handle stress in the workplace?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision in your role as a radiologic technician.

Common Tools in Industry

X-Ray Machine. A device used to produce images of the inside of the body using X-ray radiation. (eg: Used to take images of broken bones. )
Ultrasound Machine. A device used to produce images of the internal organs by using sound waves. (eg: Used to examine the heart and circulatory system. )
Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner. A machine that uses X-rays to create a detailed cross-sectional image of the body. (eg: Used to detect tumors or cancerous cells. )
Fluoroscope. A device used to view moving images of internal organs and tissues on a TV monitor. (eg: Used to diagnose heart or lung diseases. )
Mammography Machine. A device used to take special X-ray images of the breasts to detect cancer. (eg: Used to detect breast cancer in its early stages. )

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
Association of Schools of Allied Health Professionals (ASAHP)
Association of Radiologic and Imaging Nursing (ARIN)
American Association of Medical Dosimetrists (AAMD)
Radiological Society of North America (RSNA)
Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound (SRU)
American College of Radiology (ACR)
International Society for Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT)
National Board of Certification and Recertification of Radiation Therapists (NBCRT)

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Common Important Terms

Radiography. The process of creating an image of the inside of the body using X-rays or other forms of radiation.
Radiologist. A doctor that specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases using imaging techniques.
Ultrasound. A type of imaging that uses sound waves to create an image of organs and structures inside the body.
MRI. Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
CT Scan. Also known as Computerized Tomography, this imaging technique uses X-rays to create detailed images of organs and structures inside the body.
Mammography. A type of imaging used to screen for breast cancer.
Fluoroscopy. An imaging technique that uses X-rays to create real-time images of organs and structures within the body.
Nuclear Medicine. A type of imaging which uses radioactive materials to create images of organs and structures within the body.
Interventional Radiology. The use of imaging techniques such as X-ray, ultrasound, and MRI to guide therapeutic procedures such as biopsies and catheterization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Radiologic Technician? A1: A Radiologic Technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in producing and analyzing diagnostic images to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. Q2: What qualifications are necessary to become a Radiologic Technician? A2: To become a Radiologic Technician, one must complete an accredited program in radiologic technology, typically a two-year associate degree program, and obtain a license or certification from their state. Q3: What duties does a Radiologic Technician perform? A3: A Radiologic Technician performs many duties, such as operating imaging equipment and positioning patients for examinations, evaluating images for diagnostic quality, and providing patient care. Q4: What is the average salary of a Radiologic Technician? A4: The average salary of a Radiologic Technician is around $60,000 per year. Q5: What are the long-term career prospects for a Radiologic Technician? A5: Radiologic Technicians can find long-term employment in hospitals, medical centers, doctor's offices, and other healthcare settings. As healthcare technology advances, the demand for Radiologic Technicians is expected to grow.