RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGISTS & TECHNICIANS Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics
[Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 ed]
Significant Points
Employment is projected to grow faster than average; those with knowledge of more than
one diagnostic imaging procedure will have the best employment opportunities.
Formal training programs in radiography are offered in hospitals or colleges and
universities and lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor's degree.
Most States require licensure, and requirements vary.
Although hospitals will remain the primary employer, a number of new jobs will
be found in physicians' offices and diagnostic imaging centers.
Nature of the Work
Radiologic technologists and technicians perform diagnostic imaging examinations
like x rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and mammography.
Some radiologic technologists and technicians, referred to as radiographers, produce
x-ray films (radiographs) of parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems.
They prepare patients for radiologic examinations by explaining the procedure, removing
jewelry and other articles through which x rays cannot pass, and positioning patients so
that the parts of the body can be appropriately radiographed.
To prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation, these workers surround the exposed area
with radiation protection devices, such as lead shields, or limit the size of the x-ray beam.
Radiographers position radiographic equipment at the correct angle and height over the
appropriate area of a patient's body. Using instruments similar to a measuring tape they
may measure the thickness of the section to be radiographed and set controls on the x-ray
machine to produce radiographs of the appropriate density, detail, and contrast.
Radiologic technologists and technicians must follow physicians' orders precisely and conform
to regulations concerning the use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and their
coworkers from unnecessary exposure.
In addition to preparing patients and operating equipment, radiologic technologists and
technicians keep patient records and adjust and maintain equipment. They also may prepare
work schedules, evaluate purchases of equipment, or manage a radiology department.
Radiologic technologists also perform more complex imaging procedures. When performing
fluoroscopies, for example, radiologic technologists prepare a solution for the patient to drink,
allowing the radiologist (a physician who interprets radiographs) to see soft tissues in the body.
Some radiologic technologists specialize in computed tomography (CT), as CT technologists.
CT scans produce a substantial amount of cross-sectional x rays of an area of the body. From
those cross-sectional x rays, a three-dimensional image is made. The CT uses ionizing radiation;
therefore, it requires the same precautionary measures that are used with x rays.
Radiologic technologists also can specialize in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR) as MR
technologists. MR, like CT, produces multiple cross-sectional images to create a 3-dimensional
image. Unlike CT and x rays, MR uses non-ionizing radio frequency to generate image contrast.
Radiologic technologists might also specialize in mammography. Mammographers use low
dose x-ray systems to produce images of the breast.
In addition to radiologic technologists, others who conduct diagnostic imaging procedures include
cardiovascular technologists and technicians, diagnostic medical sonographers, and nuclear
medicine technologists. (Each is discussed elsewhere in the Handbook.)
Work environment.
Physical stamina is important in this occupation because technologists and
technicians are on their feet for long periods and may lift or turn disabled patients. Technologists
and technicians work at diagnostic machines but also may perform some procedures at patients'
bedsides. Some travel to patients in large vans equipped with sophisticated diagnostic equipment.
Although radiation hazards exist in this occupation, they are minimized by the use of lead aprons,
gloves, and other shielding devices, and by instruments monitoring exposure to radiation.
Technologists and technicians wear badges measuring radiation levels in the radiation area,
and detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose.
Most full-time radiologic technologists and technicians work about 40 hours a week. They may,
however, have evening, weekend, or on-call hours. Some radiologic technologists and technicians
work part time for more than one employer; for those, travel to and from facilities must be considered.
