How to Be X-ray Film Processor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 23, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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X-ray film processors are essential in the medical field as they are used to transfer X-ray images onto film. The processor operates by using a chemical solution to coat the film and then passes it through a series of rollers and tanks, exposing it to light. The chemical solution helps the X-rays to be transferred onto the film and the exposure to light helps to fix the images onto the film.

This process is essential for medical professionals to be able to review, analyze and diagnose patients. An X-ray film processor is a key tool for medical professionals, as it enables them to have access to high quality and precise digital images which can be used for accurate diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of patients.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Becoming an X-ray film processor requires at least a high school diploma or GED.
Gain Employment in a Medical Facility. X-ray film processors typically work in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
Complete On-The-Job Training. Many employers provide on-the-job training to X-ray film processors. During this time, they learn how to operate the equipment and process X-ray films.
Obtain Certification. In some states, X-ray film processors are required to obtain certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers a certification exam for X-ray film processors.
Obtain Relevant Experience. X-ray film processors should gain experience in the medical field, such as working as a medical assistant or a radiology technician. This experience can help them better understand the medical field and become more knowledgeable about X-ray films.
Stay Up-To-Date on Technology. As technology advances, X-ray film processors must be able to stay up-to-date on new equipment and techniques. They should take courses or attend workshops to maintain their knowledge and skills.

Using an X-ray film processor requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure its efficiency and accuracy. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the machine's parts can prevent malfunctions and wear-and-tear, while checking the electrical connections can help to prevent power surges and other electrical issues. it is important to regularly check for any software updates that may be needed for the film processor, as outdated software can lead to problems with processing images.

Finally, taking care to replace worn or damaged parts with new components that are designed specifically for the X-ray film processor can help to keep it running smoothly and accurately. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your X-ray film processor remains updated and efficient.

You may want to check X-ray Machine Maintenance Technician, X-ray Engineer, and X-ray Scientist for alternative.

Job Description

Operate X-ray film processor to produce X-ray films.
Monitor and adjust chemical levels in the processor to ensure quality results.
Load X-ray films into processor and adjust exposure settings as necessary.
Prepare films for interpretation by radiologists.
Maintain and repair the X-ray film processor as needed.
Clean, organize and stock supplies in the X-ray room.
Monitor and record chemical usage for inventory control.
Ensure all safety protocols are followed when operating the processor.
Maintain accurate records of all films processed.
Troubleshoot any technical issues with the processor.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of X-ray film processing equipment
Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair X-ray film processors
Understanding of X-ray film processing chemistry
Ability to operate and calibrate X-ray film processors
Knowledge of safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals
Familiarity with relevant regulatory standards and guidelines
Strong customer service skills
Good organizational and time management skills
Ability to work independently and take initiative
Attention to detail and accuracy

Having the right skills is essential for operating an X-ray film processor. In order to effectively and accurately process X-ray films, the operator must have a good understanding of the technical aspects of the equipment, as well as the ability to interpret the results. The operator must also have a good eye for detail, be able to recognize subtle changes in image quality, and have a thorough knowledge of anatomy and positioning used for radiographic imaging.

a strong working knowledge of radiation safety protocols is critical for ensuring the safety of both the patient and the operator. All of these skills are necessary for a successful X-ray film processor and must be developed through practice and experience.

X-ray Technician Assistant, X-ray Physicist, and X-ray Maintenance Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in X-ray Film Processing?
How would you handle challenging situations that arise while processing films?
What do you consider the most important aspects of an X-ray Film Processor's job?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a problem with the equipment used for processing films.
How do you ensure that the X-ray films are processed accurately and efficiently?
Do you have experience using digital imaging systems?
How do you prioritize tasks when there are multiple films to process?
What strategies do you use to keep up with the latest developments in X-ray Film Processing?
How do you stay organized and ensure that all films are processed in a timely manner?
What safety protocols do you follow while processing X-ray films?

Common Tools in Industry

Developing Tank. A container used to process X-ray films, usually made of plastic or stainless steel. (eg: Kodak X-OMAT AR)
Fixer. A chemical used to stop the development process and preserve the image on X-ray films. (eg: Kodak Fixer)
Washer. A device used to rinse and wash X-ray films in order to remove any remaining chemicals. (eg: Kocour X-Ray Film Washer)
Dryer. A device used to quickly dry X-ray films after washing. ( eg: Kocour X-Ray Film Dryer)
Viewers. A device used to view X-ray films, usually in the form of an illuminated box with a magnifying lens. (eg: Kocour X-Ray Film Viewer)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
American College of Radiology (ACR)
Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM)
Association for Medical Imaging Management (AHRA)
American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM)
American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)
Radiological Society of North America (RSNA)
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS)
International Society for Computed Tomography (ISCT)
Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)

We also have X-ray Safety Officer, X-ray Safety Monitor, and X-ray Technician Supervisor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

X-ray Film. A sheet of plastic or other material coated with a light-sensitive emulsion and used to record an image produced by x-rays.
X-ray Tube. A vacuum tube used to generate x-rays by bombarding a target with electrons.
Radiography. The process of producing a photographic image using x-rays or other forms of radiation.
Darkroom. A room that is kept dark to facilitate the development of photographic film or plates.
Developer. A chemical solution used to develop a photographic image.
Fixer. A chemical solution used to fix a photographic image on a film or plate.
Wet Process. A photographic process involving the use of chemicals to produce a photograph.
Dry Process. A photographic process involving the use of heat and pressure to produce a photograph.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an X-ray Film Processor? A1: An X-ray film processor is a machine used to develop and fix radiographic film images. It is used to process X-ray films in medical imaging, industrial radiography and aerial photography. Q2: How does an X-ray Film Processor work? A2: An X-ray Film Processor works by exposing the film to a series of chemicals which are used to develop and fix the film. The chemicals are kept in tanks, and the film is passed through these tanks in a continuous process. Q3: What is the speed of an X-ray Film Processor? A3: The speed of an X-ray Film Processor is typically measured in feet per minute (FPM). Most processors have a speed range of between 12 and 15 FPM. Q4: What is the resolution of an X-ray Film Processor? A4: The resolution of an X-ray Film Processor is typically measured in lines per millimeter (LPM). Most processors have a resolution range of between 4 and 8 LPM. Q5: What safety measures should be taken when using an X-ray Film Processor? A5: It is important to take safety precautions when using an X-ray Film Processor. These include wearing protective eyewear and clothing, avoiding contact with the chemicals used to process the film, and ensuring that the processor is properly grounded.

Web Resources

Xray Northwestern University Materials Research Science and ... mrsec.northwestern.edu
X-Ray Technician Program | Modern Technology School mtschool.edu
X-ray Data Processing xray0.princeton.edu