X-ray technicians, or radiologic technicians, assist with the diagnostic process by performing radiologic procedures, including X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), computerized tomography scans (CT scans) and mammograms on patients to help doctors diagnose illness or injury. X-ray technicians may specialize in one area or may perform a variety of different tests depending on the work environment.
X-Rays
X-ray technicians explain the X-ray process to patients so that they know what to expect once the doctor orders an X-ray film. They make sure female patients are not pregnant, as X-rays can cause harm to an unborn fetus. They help prepare the patient for the X-ray by helping them into appropriate clothing if necessary and removing jewelry that the X-ray cannot pass through. The technician then positions the patient on a table or while standing. Protective devices, such as lead aprons or shields, limit how much of the patient's body is exposed to the X-ray beam and help prevent too much radiation exposure. The technician then positions the X-ray machine and places a film under the area of the body that needs to be examined. The X-ray machine is usually controlled from a smaller room adjacent to the larger imaging room. The X-ray technician will take the exposures and then remove the film for developing. Some modern X-ray machines produce a digital image on a computer so that there is no need to develop film.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
X-ray technicians perform a procedure called magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create images of the internal organs and tissues to help doctors diagnose brain and spinal cord problems, joint disorders, heart problems and blockages and other abnormalities of the internal organs. MRI machines look like tunnels with movable tables going through them. X-ray technicians help position patients on the table and monitor the procedure from a separate room while communicating via intercom with the patient. In some cases, X-ray technicians may administer contrast dye to enhance the appearance of tissues on the MRI images. For brain MRIs, X-ray technicians may instruct patients to perform small-movement tasks, such as tapping their fingers, or answer questions to see brain activity.
Computerized Tomography
Computerized tomography scans show portions of the body and internal organs in a cross-section. X-ray technicians may receive orders to perform a CT scan to help locate a tumor, monitor internal diseases like cancer or diagnose muscle or bone disorders or injuries. X-ray technicians help position patients on a table inside a ring-shaped machine. They may use straps or pillows to hold patients in positions. The technician then goes to a shielded room to operate the ring-shaped machine called a gantry. The tube inside the gantry rotates while the table moves through it. X-ray technicians monitor the images being taken on a computer during the procedure.
Tags: X-ray technicians, internal organs, technician then, doctors diagnose, help doctors
