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Many people want to know if it is hard to become an Xray tech and the answer may vary depending on who you ask.
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What is an X-ray Technician?
An X-ray technician, also known as a radiographer, is a medical professional who uses imaging equipment to take pictures of the inside of a patient’s body. The images produced by X-ray machines are used by physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
X-ray technicians typically complete a two-year associate’s degree program in radiography. Some X-ray technicians may also choose to pursue additional education and training to specialize in a particular area of radiography, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What are the requirements to become an X-ray Technician?
Anyone who wants to become an X-ray technician must complete an accredited radiography program. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will be able to apply for state licensure.
Education
There are two ways to become an X-ray Technician. The first way is to attend an accredited school and complete a two year program. The second way is to complete a four year bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences.
The majority of X-ray Technicians have an Associate’s degree, but an increasing number of employers are requiring or preferring applicants with a Bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree will not only make you more competitive for jobs, but it will also lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
If you decide to attend a two year program, you will need to complete prerequisites in biology, mathematics, communications, and other liberal arts courses before beginning your radiologic sciences courses. These courses can be completed at a community college or other accredited institution. Once you have completed your radiologic sciences courses, you will need to pass the national Certification Examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in order to become licensed/certified.
Certification
All 50 states require certification for X-ray technicians. In order to become certified, you must first graduate from an accredited radiology program. Once you have completed a program, you must then pass the national certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
License
Most states regulate the practice of x-ray technology and require licensure. According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, requirements for licensure typically include completing an accredited x-ray technology program and passing a state-administered exam. Some states may also require continuing education credits in order to renew a license.
What are the skills an X-ray Technician needs?
Many people are interested in becoming an x-ray technician but are not sure if they have the necessary skills. An x-ray technician needs to be able to follow instructions, have good hand-eye coordination, and be able to work independently. Let’s take a look at some of the other skills an x-ray technician needs.
Interpersonal skills
As an X-ray technician, you will need to interact with patients on a regular basis. You will need to be able to put them at ease, explain the procedures clearly, and answer any questions that they may have. You will also need to be able to work well with other members of the medical team, such as doctors and nurses. Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential for this job.
Communication skills
One of the most important skills an X-ray Technician needs is strong communication skills. They need to be able to explain procedures to patients and answer any questions they might have. They also need to be able to instruct patients on how to position themselves for the X-ray. Techs also need to be able to listen to doctors and follow their instructions.
Technical skills
An X-ray technician must have excellent technical skills. They must be able to set up and operate X-ray equipment in a variety of settings, as well as position patients correctly to get the best possible image. They also need to be able to maintain the equipment and keep it in good working order.
In addition to these technical skills, X-ray technicians also need to have good communication and people skills. They will be working closely with patients, so it is important that they are able to put them at ease and explain what they are doing. They also need to be able to work well as part of a team, as they will often be working alongside other healthcare professionals.
What are the duties of an X-ray Technician?
An X-ray Technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is a health care professional who performs diagnostic imaging procedures, such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. The duties of an X-ray Technician include positioning patients, operating equipment, and keeping records.
Prepare patients for X-rays
Before administering an X-ray,technicians must explain the procedure to patients and answer any questions they have. They also need to position patients properly so that the desired body part is exposed to the X-ray. For example, technicians might place an arm or leg in a special device that helps hold it still during the procedure.
Position patients for X-rays
X-ray techs, also called radiologic technologists, work under the supervision of licensed physicians to provide quality diagnostic images. They are an important part of the healthcare team, working alongside nurses, doctors and other medical professionals.
Patients must be positioned correctly in order for X-ray techs to get a clear image.X-ray techs position patients on exam tables, chairs or gurneys. They may also use special devices to help position patients correctly, such as pillows, straps or baskets. Once the patient is in position, the X-ray tech will step out of the room and activate the machine from behind a lead shield.
Take X-rays
As an X-ray technician, or radiographer, you’ll use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the body, which are then used by consultants to make a diagnosis. Your work will involve exposure to ionising radiation. It’s a highly regulated area of work due to the health risks associated with the use of X-rays. You’ll need to be able follow strict safety procedures to protect patients, yourself and colleagues from exposure.
What are the working conditions of an X-ray Technician?
X-ray technicians have one of the most important jobs in the medical field. They are responsible for taking images of the inside of patients’ bodies in order to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. X-ray techs must be able to operate X-ray machines and other imaging equipment. They also must be able to communicate well with patients and maintain a calm demeanor in high-pressure situations.
Hours
An X-ray Technician typically works full time, although some may work part time. Hours may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Environment
X-ray technicians typically work in well-lit and clean environments. They may be exposed to infectious diseases and chemicals, but they are usually not exposed to hazardous conditions. Most x-ray technicians work full time, and some may have to work evenings or weekends.
Salary
X-ray Technician Salary
How much does an x-ray tech make?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for X-ray technicians, also called radiologic technologists, was $60,070 in May 2017. This means that half of all X-ray techs made more money than this and half made less. The top 10 percent of workers in this occupation made more than $80,410 while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $44,210.
