Radiologist takes images of the inside of the human body.
Radiology technicians, sometimes called radiologists, are medial professionals that help aid physicians in the diagnostic process by taking non-invasive images of the inside of the human body. Radiologists use various methods, such as X-rays, MRI, computer tomography and mammography to examine the body. The job requires skills in managing equipment that emits radiation. Radiology technicians must have ability to work with patients to prepare them for the scans and doctors to get the needed images.
Patient Preparation
Radiology techs must prepare patients for scans.
Radiology technicians work directly with patients to prepare them for their tests. They must make sure the patient is positioned properly with the machine and is comfortable. Disabled patients may need assistance from the radiology technician. They must make sure there is no jewelry or clothing to block the scan. In the case of an MRI, they must make sure there is no metal that can affect the scan.
Radiation Protection
Radiology techs must be careful with radiation equipment.
Radiology technicians work with equipment that emits potentially dangerous radiation. They must protect the patient and themselves from unnecessary exposure. Patients may need to be covered with a protective vest and blankets. Radiology technicians may wear protective equipment or stand behind protective furnishings to prevent exposure. Radiologist must also make sure all equipment is functioning properly so there is the proper amount of radiation being sent out in a scan and no radiation is leaking or being sent out at the wrong time.
Fluoroscopies
Radiology techs may give fluoroscopies, which examine soft tissue that does not usually show up in scans. In order for tissue to show up, patients are given specially mixed solutions that make the tissue visible under an X-ray. Radiology techs must prepare the right solution for what they are examining and administer it to the patients.
MRI
Radiology technicians operate MRIs.
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a newer technology that uses no ionizing radiation. The process uses powerful magnetic fields to get cross images of the body and views of the soft tissue that x-rays cannot achieve. MRIs are safer than X-rays because there is no ionizing radiation, but technicians must still maintain safety. Patients must have no metal which could be drawn out by the magnets. Patients must also be kept comfortable in the small space inside the MRI machine.
Computed Tomograhy
Radiology technicians use computer tomography for body scans. Computer tomography creates a three dimensional image of the inside of the body by using cross-sectional x-rays. The process uses ionizing radiation, making it necessary for radiology techs to take safety precautions.
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