X-ray techs are also referred to as radiologic technologists. They work in the field of radiography and take pictures of the skeletal system and the surrounding tissue. Most x-ray techs attend schooling at an accredited college in order to obtain certification. X-ray techs are in high demand in the medical field. Those who work in this career setting generally work in a safe clinical environment, but there are still some risks involved.
Specialties
X-ray techs spend their daily work schedule performing imaging procedures on patients. While x-ray techs are educated to perform basic job tasks, some also take designated training to specialize in particular areas. Two of these specialties include computed tomography or CT Technologist and magnetic resonance imaging or MRI Technologist. A CT technologist performs procedures on patients with a CAT scan machine to scan areas of the body to generate images. An MRI tech assists patients and then preforms an MRI procedure that uses a magnetic field and radio frequency pulsing action to take detailed pictures of interior human tissue. Within these groups, they can also specialize in particular areas such as mammography---where they take images of the breast and its surrounding tissue.
General Job Functions
All x-ray techs begin with prepping patients for their procedures. This may include obtaining basic medical information and then getting the patient comfortable and prepared for the procedure. All techs must know how to adjust the equipment to adapt the patient's size and the exact location to be x-rayed. They work under the supervision of a physician or under a physicians standing medical orders. They are also required to safeguard the patient with a protective radiation-shielding device to prevent widespread radiation exposure.
Work Environment
X-ray techs can work in a variety of work settings. Many work inside of a hospital or clinic. Most of them fill up appointments throughout the day with patients in need of radiology care. Some technicians may be on call throughout all hours of the night for patients who enter a hospital or urgent care clinic because of an emergency. Some medical office buildings and chiropractic offices may also utilize x-ray technicians to service their patients as needed. Mobile diagnostic units are also popular and include a trained staff that travels from location to location to provide radiology services to patients.
Time Frame
X-ray techs must obtain specialty schooling and training in order to become a certified technician. There are certificate programs available at vocational schools across the country. These courses are generally under eight months long and provide a basic introduction to radiology. For those who wish to obtain a degree, they may wish to attend an associates (up to two-year program) or bachelor's degree program (up to four-year program) at an accredited university or college. For those who wish to combine clinical studies with a supervisory or teaching position, a master's degree (up to six years total) in radiologic technologies can be obtained. All x-ray techs must also become certified and in some states, licensed to perform their job.
Considerations
There is a slight risk to working as an x-ray tech. The main risk is the increase in radiation exposure. Over time if proper safety techniques such as shielding and avoidance when the machines are operating are not implemented, long-term radiation damage could occur. X-ray techs must also tack and monitor overall radiation levels in the procedure room and wear lead aprons and gloves for additional protection.
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