An x-ray technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is a trained health care worker who specializes in using x-ray and other medical imaging equipment to take “insider” pictures of the body in order to visualize and diagnose diseases, conditions, and injuries. Most x-ray technicians train for a year or two before working in a variety of settings in this rapidly growing field. Hospitals, doctor’s offices, radiology clinics, dental offices, and convalescent homes are all possible places to work in this field. Long-term exposure to frequent x-rays has been linked to the development of certain cancers, so the field is not without risk. This risk is reduced following safety protocols such as shielding vulnerable body parts from radiation with lead sheets or walls while x-rays are taken.
Radiologic technologists must learn how to operate both fixed and portable x-ray equipment, as well as how to develop images and position people for the best results. Some people go on to study other aspects of radiology, such as sonograms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), and computerized axial tomography (CAT) scans (CAT scans or CT scans). Working in this field necessitates the ability to work well with people who may be uncooperative at times or unable to stand, sit, or lie down in certain positions due to illness or injury. The technician must maintain a calm and helpful demeanor, particularly when dealing with people who are worried or in pain.
Under almost all circumstances, an x-ray technician is unable to discuss the results of an x-ray with a patient. A radiologist, doctor, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner is responsible for this. Although a skilled x-ray technician can spot potential problems on x-ray images, it is not his or her job to interpret and discuss the results with patients. Patients who are having x-rays should show respect to these medical professionals not interrogating them about the results or treatment they are receiving. Instead, inquire as to when the films will be read a radiologist or doctor, and when they can expect to hear from the radiologist or doctor regarding the results.
Typically, an x-ray technician is trained to recognize problems that require immediate attention and will immediately notify a radiologist if a serious problem exists. If the x-ray does not reveal any immediate problems, the patient may have to wait several days for the results. X-rays that reveal problems become the radiology lab’s or technician’s top priority.
Workers in this field can expect a wide range of working conditions, including working under pressure and dealing with stressful situations such as people who are seriously ill or in pain. It can help you not only train in your field, but also understand the purpose of your job allowing you to draw pictures of problems for doctors or dentists to solve. Though it is not always possible to solve a problem, the x-ray technician is essential in the diagnostic aspect of health care.
It’s worth noting that while the term “x-ray tech” refers to an x-ray technician, it can also refer to an x-ray technologist. X-ray technologists have a higher level of education (usually at least an associate’s degree) and training than x-ray technicians, and they may also have supervisory responsibilities. A person who repairs x-ray machines is also known as an x-ray technician or an x-ray tech, but the correct title is “x-ray repair technician.”