Radiologic Technologists, also referred to as Radiographers, Rad Techs, X-Ray Techs or MRI Technicians, perform x-rays and other diagnostic imaging examinations on patients that produce 3D images of tissue, organs, bones, and joints by using different types of diagnostic equipment such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or CT scanners. Depending on their training, radiologic technologists may choose to specialize in a specific field such as x-ray, mammography, or computed tomography (CT) imaging.
Radiologic technologists that specialize in magnetic resonance imaging scanners inject patients with contrast media, such as a dye, or they provide a mixture for the patient to drink so that the images will show up on the scanner. The scanners use magnetic fields in combination with the contrast agent to produce images that a doctor can use to assess and diagnose medical problems. A radiologic technologist is typically supervised by a radiologist and supports the doctor and other members of the healthcare team by performing these diagnostic imaging procedures.Radiologic and MRI technologists typically do the following:
Duties
- Adjust and maintain imaging equipment
- Follow precise orders from physicians on what areas of the body to image
- Prepare patients for procedures, including taking a medical history and shielding exposed areas that do not need to be imaged
- Position the patient and the equipment in order to get the correct image
- Operate the computerized equipment to take the images
- Work with physicians to evaluate the images and to determine whether additional images need to be taken Keep detailed patient records
Radiologic technologists are trained in the use of different types of medical diagnostic equipment. They may choose to specialize, such as in x-ray, mammography, or computed tomography (CT) imaging. Some radiologic technologists provide a mixture for the patient to drink that allows soft tissue to be viewed on the images that the radiologist reviews.
MRI technologists specialize in magnetic resonance imaging scanners. They inject patients with contrast media, such as a dye, so that the images will show up on the scanner. The scanners use magnetic fields in combination with the contrast agent to produce images that a physician can use to diagnose medical problems.