Radiology is the examination of the inner structure of the body using x-rays or other

penetrating radiation

A Radiology x-ray technician uses penetrating radiation to perform tests on

patients.

There are over 17,000 annual job openings a year in the x-ray technician field.

•determine patients' x-ray needs by reading requests or instructions from physician to interpret a patients x-ray needs•position patient on examining table•set up and adjust equipment to view specific body area as requested by physician •perform procedures using x-ray equipment•administer non-radioactive contrast into a patients bloodstream for diagnostic purposes•use patient-shielding techniques to minimize radiation exposure to patient and staff. •process exposed radiographs using film processors or computer generated methods

Most Frequent Job Opportunities

•General Medical and Surgical Hospitals•Physicians Office

•Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories

Most full-time radiological technologist and technicians work a 40 hour week. They may have evening or weekend on-call hours. Opportunities for part-time and shift work are also common.

Physical stamina is important because technicians must be on their feet for long periods of time while lifting and turning disabled patients.

Technicians deal with radiation hazards and must minimize their existence with the use of lead aprons and other shielding devices. They wear badges to measure radiation levels in their work area and keep a cumulative lifetime record of harmful exposure.

Profession positions in the radiography field, offered in

hospitals, colleges, universities, and U.S. armed

forces, prefer to have formally trained individuals. Opportunities to advance take an additional year to

earn a certificate for specialization in CT or MRI.

A bachelors or masters is required for most

supervisory, administrative or teaching positions.

•Certificate

•Associates Degree

•Bachelors Degree

•Masters Degree

1-4yrs

•Cardiovascular technicians,

•Clinical laboratory technologists

•Diagnostic medical sonographers

•Nuclear medicine technologists

•Radiation therapists

•Respiratory therapists

Starting Salary

Average Income

$30,000

$55,000

Experienced Workers

$60,000

For Additional Career Information write to:

American Society of Radiologic Technologists1500 Central Ave. S.E.Albuquerque, NM 87123-3917

Website: www.asrt.org

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists1255 Northland Dr. St. Paul, MN 55120-1155

Website: www.arrt.org

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology20 N. Wacker Dr., Suite 2850Chicago, IL 60606-3182

Website: www.jrcert.org

www.careeroverview.com/radiologist-career.html

EZ Occupational Outlook Handbook

Occupational Outlook Handbook 2006-2007 Edition