An x ray technician translates and takes x rays and administers non-radioactive contrast materials into a patient’s blood streams for diagnostic testing. The technician prepares the patient for the test by explaining the procedure, removing jewelry and other articles that x rays cannot penetrate, and positioning the patient for optimal x ray views. The tech also protects the patient by shielding other areas of the body with lead shields or by adjusting the size and shape of the X ray beam.
X ray technicians usually work in hospitals or doctors offices; however, some may have their own business. They work in clean, well-lighted surroundings. Usually they work 40-hour weeks but some overtime may be required and some x ray technicians may be on call. In hospitals, they may work day, evening, or night shifts. The x ray technician must have a lot of stamina, for they are on their feet almost constantly.
Salary and Jobs
The salary range for a x ray tech ranges from a high of $68,920 to a low of $32,750 with $48,170 being the average. The job outlook is expected to be better than average through 2016 with faster than average growth at a projected increase of 15 percent. As the population grows and ages, demand for diagnostic imaging will increase. There will also be the need to replace workers leaving the work force due to retirement.
Training and Education
Training for x ray technology is offered at hospitals, colleges, and universities. Some vocational programs are also available. The training programs last between one to four years and result in a certificate, an associate’s, or a bachelor’s degree. The two-year associate degree is the most common. Admission to the programs require at minimum a high school diploma or GED. The radiology tech student can expect to have classes in anatomy and physiology, patient care procedures, radiation physics, radiation protection, imaging principles, medical terminology, medical ethics, radiobiology, and pathology.
Certification and Advancement
Some x ray technologists may choose to become certified in their field. There are several types of certifications from which to choose depending upon your areas of experience. Generally, the candidate must have graduated from an accredited radiology technology training course and pass the examination. The candidate must have 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years in order to be recertified.
X ray techs can take extra training and advance to become Radiologic specialists, performing CT or MRI scans. Others may chose to perform angiography, a procedure in which blood vessels are x rayed for blood clots or other obstructions. With certification the radiology tech may advance to become a Radiologic assistant.
For those who choose to become x ray technicians, they will be rewarded with job security, a comfortable working environment with few health hazards-although they are subject to radiation exposure- and a good salary.
