X-ray Technician and Radiologic Technician Jobs

Both radiologic technologist and radiologic technicians perform diagnostic imaging examination. Radiologic technicians perform x-ray imaging examinations while radiologic technologists with further education use other imaging modalities such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and mammography. In California the official title for a radiologic technician is X-ray Technician or XT; and for the radiologic technologist it is Certified Radiologic Technologist or CRT.

In California all radiologic technologists and technicians must pass a state board examination. A number of States use ARRT-administered exams for State licensing purposes. To be eligible for certification in California, techs must graduate from an approved accredited program and pass the state board examination. In order to maintain certification, 24 hours of continuing education must be completed every 2 years.

Radiologic technicians, produce x-ray films (radiographs) of parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems. They prepare patients for radiologic examinations by explaining the procedure, removing jewelry and other articles through which x-rays cannot pass, and positioning patients so that the parts of the body can be appropriately radiographed. To prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation, these workers surround the exposed area with radiation protection devices, such as lead shields, or limit the size of the x-ray beam. Radiographers position radiographic equipment at the correct angle and height over the appropriate area of a patient's body. They may measure the thickness of the section to be radiographed and set controls on the x-ray machine to produce radiographs of the appropriate density, detail, and contrast.

Radiologic technologists have an advanced degree and in addition to taking routine radiographs like a radiologic technician they specialize in various modalities offered in the additional education as a CRT.
Techs must follow physicians' orders precisely and conform to regulations concerning the use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and their coworkers from unnecessary radiation exposure.
In addition to preparing patients and operating equipment, techs keep patient records and adjust and maintain equipment. They also may prepare work schedules, evaluate purchases of equipment, or manage a radiology department.

Physical stamina is important in this occupation because techs are on their feet for long periods and may lift or turn disabled patients.
Although radiation hazards exist in this occupation, they are minimized by the use of lead aprons, gloves, and other shielding devices, and by instruments monitoring exposure to radiation. Technologists and technicians wear badges measuring radiation levels in the radiation area, and detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose.
Most full-time radiologic technologists and technicians work about 40 hours a week. They may, however, have evening, weekend, or on-call hours. Some radiologic technologists and technicians work part time for more than one employer; for those, travel to and from facilities must be considered.

Radiologic technologists and technicians should be sensitive to patients' physical and psychological needs. They must pay attention to detail, follow instructions, and work as part of a team. In addition, operating complicated equipment requires mechanical ability and manual dexterity.

Source: United States Department of Labor—Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Modern Technology School, 16560 Harbor Blvd. Ste K., Fountain Valley, CA 92708, 714-418-9100, www.mtschool.edu