Graduation from the Radiologic Sciences program and successful completion of the ARRT examination qualifies you to be a radiologic technologist (RT), or radiographer, and provides you with credentials to continue your education in other radiologic specialty disciplines.
According to America’s Career Infonet, job openings for radiologic technicians across the country are expected to grow by 23 percent through the year 2014.
RTs can expect to make a median salary of $22.09 an hour, or $45,900 annually.
Radiologic technologists usually work a 40-hour week, sometimes including evening, weekend or on-call hours. Opportunities are also available for part-time and shift work, as well as flexible scheduling.
Technologists operate diagnostic machines in designated clinical areas of a hospital, medical center, diagnostic imaging center or physician’s office. They must comply with safety regulations at all times, protecting themselves, their patients and co-workers from unnecessary exposure to radiation.
The job demands sound physical and mental health, and:
- Good vision to work with charts and records, and manipulate X-ray controls for the production of radiation
- Good communication skills for conversing with patients and fellow workers
- Physical strength for pushing wheelchairs, beds, stretchers and portable equipment; lifting and carrying equipment, supplies and patients (at least 50 pounds); and constant standing and walking
- The ability to be accurate and precise, as a treatment is only as effective as the person who administers it
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Radiologic technologists:
- Follow physicians’ orders precisely
- Explain diagnostic procedures to patients
- Secure exposed areas with radiation protection devices
- Prepare diagnostic machines
- Accurately position the patient
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They may also:
- Keep patient records
- Adjust and maintain equipment
- Prepare work schedules
- Evaluate equipment purchases
- Manage a department
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Opportunities for advancement within the field include:
- Advanced technologies
- Cardiac catheterization
- Computer Tomography (CT scans)
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography (see El Centro College’s program)
- Education and research
- Radiation therapy
- Supervision and management
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Nuclear medicine technology
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