X-Ray Technician: 10 Vital Duties & Responsibilities

What is an X-Ray Technician?

An X-ray technician, also known as a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who specializes in using X-ray machines to create images of the inside of the body. These images are used to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions, from broken bones to cancer.

X-Ray Technician Duties and Responsibilities

X-ray technicians have a wide range of duties and responsibilities, including:

1. Preparing patients for X-rays: This includes explaining the procedure to the patient, positioning the patient correctly, and ensuring that the patient is comfortable.
2. Operating X-ray machines: X-ray technicians must be able to operate X-ray machines safely and efficiently. This includes setting the correct exposure settings, using the appropriate filters, and collimating the X-ray beam.
3. Processing X-ray images: Once the X-ray images have been taken, the X-ray technician must process them so that they can be viewed by the doctor. This includes developing the images, fixing them, and mounting them on a viewbox.
4. Maintaining X-ray equipment: X-ray technicians are responsible for maintaining the X-ray equipment in good working order. This includes cleaning the equipment, calibrating it, and performing routine maintenance.
5. Ensuring radiation safety: X-ray technicians must be aware of the potential hazards of radiation and take steps to protect themselves and the patient from unnecessary exposure. This includes wearing lead aprons and gloves, using shielded rooms, and monitoring radiation levels.
6. Communicating with patients and doctors: X-ray technicians must be able to communicate effectively with patients and doctors. This includes explaining the procedure to the patient, answering questions, and providing the doctor with a clear and concise report of the X-ray findings.
7. Continuing education: X-ray technicians must stay up-to-date on the latest advances in X-ray technology and techniques. This includes attending continuing education courses and workshops, and reading professional journals.
8. Working as part of a team: X-ray technicians often work as part of a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and radiation therapists. They must be able to work effectively with others to provide the best possible care for the patient.
9. Providing compassionate care: X-ray technicians play an important role in providing compassionate care to patients. They must be able to put patients at ease, answer their questions, and provide support during what can be a stressful time.
10. Adhering to ethical guidelines: X-ray technicians must adhere to ethical guidelines in all of their work. This includes obtaining informed consent from patients, protecting patient confidentiality, and respecting patient autonomy.

Education and Training for X-Ray Technicians

To become an X-ray technician, you must complete a two-year associate degree program in radiography. This program will teach you the skills and knowledge you need to perform the duties and responsibilities of an X-ray technician. After completing your associate degree program, you must pass a national certification exam to become a licensed X-ray technician.

X-Ray Technician Salary and Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for X-ray technicians was $63,980 in May 2021. The job outlook for X-ray technicians is expected to be excellent over the next few years. The number of X-ray technicians is expected to grow by 12% from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

X-Ray Technician Career Advancement

There are a number of opportunities for career advancement for X-ray technicians. Some X-ray technicians choose to specialize in a particular area of X-ray, such as mammography or computed tomography (CT). Others choose to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree in radiography or a related field. With additional education and experience, X-ray technicians can advance to positions such as radiography manager, radiation therapist, or medical dosimetrist.

Conclusion

X-ray technicians play an important role in the healthcare system. They provide essential imaging services that help doctors diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. If you are interested in a career in healthcare, X-ray technology may be a good option for you.