Chapter 7: Imaging and Diagnostics
Brandon Censon MPH, CPH, RRT-NPS, CPFT, CPT
Radiologic technologists are healthcare professionals who are responsible for performing a variety of diagnostic imaging procedures. Radiologic technologists are responsible for ensuring that patients are positioned correctly for the procedure, so that a quality image is produced. They are also responsible for operating the diagnostic imaging equipment and are skilled to minimize the amount of radiation a patient is exposed to. The images that are obtained can be used to help the medical team diagnose and treat their patients. In some cases, radiologic technologists help physicians perform minimally invasive procedures. Radiologic technologists can work in a variety of settings that include hospitals, outpatient clinics, and physician offices.
Academic Requirements and Career Pathways
Radiologic Technologist
The academic requirements for radiologic technologists include earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree with a specialization in radiologic science. This course work includes classroom training as well as hands-on clinical experience. After completing the radiology program, students can then take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) certification exam to become registered as an R.T.(R). With additional education and experience, radiographers can earn specialty certificates / credentials that are discussed in the subsequent sections.
A Day in the Life of a Radiology Technologist
Many x-ray technologists find themselves in the Diagnostic Imaging or Radiology department in a hospital, urgent care center or specialized imaging clinic. The technologists take images or x-rays of our skeletal, gastrointestinal, vascular, or urinary systems. The trained radiologic technologists are essential to doctors for capturing images of different medical conditions and diseases.
A technologist is responsible for ensuring the equipment is functional, clean, and ready for exams. They prepare the patient by placing their body in specific positions to obtain diagnostic images that assist the patients with the diagnostic journey. There is an increased requirement of utilizing imaging sciences, such as Radiology or Sonography to accurately pinpoint a patient’s medical condition, where ordering physicians rely on x-ray technologists and view them as an integral part of the healthcare team.
Computed Tomography Technician
Computed Tomography (CT) technicians operate specialized computerized radiology equipment that produces cross-sectional images of the body. CT technicians are specialized radiologic technologists. The additional education to become a CT technician generally includes coursework that prepares them to safely operate the CT scanning equipment and the application of anatomy and pathology. Upon completion of the CT technician training, one can then challenge the e). Depending on the state you wish to work, additional licensure may be required.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technician
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technicians operate highly sophisticated radiologic imaging equipment that uses radio waves and magnetic fields to produce images of a patient’s internal organs. These images can play a critical role in diagnosing and treating patients with a variety of conditions. MRI technicians generally work in a hospital or clinic setting. To become an MRI technician, one must first become registered as an R.T.(R), then you will need to complete an MRI program that includes classroom as well as hands-on training. Upon completion of the MRI program, one can then challenge the ARRT MRI certification examination. Depending on the state you wish to work, additional licensure may be required.
Mammography Technician
Mammography technicians are specialized radiologic technologists in performing mammograms. Mammography technicians are skilled in anatomy and physiology, proper breast positioning and compression, and ensuring that quality images are produced for medical screening and diagnostics. To become a mammography technician, one must be registered as an R.T.(R), then complete additional training related to mammographic modalities. Upon completion of the mammographic training, one can then challenge the ARRT mammography certification (Mammography, 2023). Depending on the state you wish to work, additional licensure may be required.
Attributions
- Figure 7.5: image released under the Pexels License
- Figure 7.6: image released under the Pexels License
- Figure 7.7: image released under the Pexels License
Screening x-rays of breast tissue, looking for densities that suggest cancerous tumors