Tag: technologist

To be professionally known as a certified cytogenetic technologist, you will need to enroll yourself in a professional program that will grant you a notable certificate and help you push up your career as a cytogenetic technologist in the healthcare industry.

Cytogenetic technology programs are largely concerned with training students for professional certification. Culturing and harvesting specimens, genetic abnormalities of the blood and bone marrow, congenital disorders, prenatal cytogenetics, and chromosomal imaging are all covered in the courses.

These programs may teach you how to find matching transplant donors, diagnose birth defects, and recognize disease-related molecular changes. Clinical practicums, in which you work under supervision in a cytogenetics lab, are part of accredited programs.

In this article, we will be discussing cytogenetic technologist certification, its program, and probably how to enroll for a program online.

Let’s get started!

Cytogenetic technologist certification an overview

A cytogenetic technologist is a scientist who studies how faulty chromosomes cause birth abnormalities, infertility, and cancer.

In order to become a certified cytogeneticist, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in cytogenetic technology, biotechnology, or a similar discipline.

Although a certificate of a cytogenetic technologist is not necessarily required for employment, rather it makes you as a candidate more appealing to potential employers.

For you as an applicant for the technician in cytogenetics designation to be eligible, you will have three options for eligibility.

The first path necessitates a bachelor’s degree as well as the completion of a cytogenetics program. The second demands a bachelor’s degree and at least one year of experience working in a cytogenetics laboratory, while the third requires a graduate-level degree in genetics or molecular biology and nine months of experience working in a cytogenetics lab.

A bachelor’s degree is required for the Cytotechnologist (CT) certification, and you must have completed a cytotechnology program within the last five years.

Candidates for the cytotechnology specialist certification must have a current CT certification and three years of experience working in a cytogenetics lab.

Cytogenetic technologist programs

As stated earlier, cytogenetic technology programs are largely concerned with training students for professional certification.

Cytogenetics programs may teach you how to find matching transplant donors, diagnose birth defects, and recognize disease-related molecular changes.

In addition to Cytogenetic technologist programs Clinical practicums, in which you work under supervision in a cytogenetics lab, are also part of the accredited programs.

Cytogenetic technologist programs online

As for whether some individuals would want to know if they can take Cytogenetic technologist programs online, the answer is yes.

It is very possible to take this program certification online, there are many licensed academic institutions and also some universities that provide the necessary courses you will need that will help you to get this certificate.

Just do some research and find the best online institution that suits you.

Enroll for the course online, make yourself available and participate, take your assessment seriously, and be ready to be awarded your certification.

What Are the Licensing and Certification Requirements?

Some states require cytogenetic technologists to be licensed in order to practice. When you complete an accredited bachelor’s degree program and pass a state occupational exam, you are typically granted licensure.

Consult your state’s Department of Health or Board of occupational licensing for specific requirements. Some states, including New York and California, may use the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) exam for certification.

Because many employers prefer certified cytogenetic technologists, you should seriously consider obtaining this professional designation.

The ASCP provides the primary certification for cytogenetic technologists. To become certified, you must first complete a recognized bachelor’s degree program and then pass an exam covering chromosomal imaging, specimen preparation, and safety requirements. Recertification, which is required every three years, necessitates continuing education.

Apply for cytogenetic technologist jobs.

You can begin seeking work as a cytogenetic technologist once you have completed all education and certification requirements.

Most cytogenetic technologists work in laboratories or medical facilities, so researching specific places where you might wish to work and inquiring about opportunities might be beneficial. You may also utilize job search websites or search engines to find job openings by job title or area.

Is it necessary for me to be certified?

According to the American Medical Association, while certification is not needed, many businesses prefer to hire cytogenetic technologists with qualifications.

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) grants clinical laboratory personnel certifications, including the Technologist in Cytogenetics (CG) title. You will earn your CG certification after meeting the education and experience requirements and passing the examination.

What Would a Cytogenetic Technologist Do?

The study of the cell and its genetic material, specifically the structure and arrangement of DNA molecules and the genes contained inside, is known as cytogenetics.

As a cytogenetic technologist, you would evaluate patients’ chromosomal structures using various laboratory procedures.

Some congenital diseases, such as Down syndrome, are caused by an abnormal number of chromosomes, whereas others are caused by missing parts of specific chromosomes.

Karyotyping, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and other procedures can be used to look for chromosomal changes. Some of your work may require prenatal diagnosis, whilst others may involve determining the genetic influence of a possibly developing disease in an adult.

What are some alternative careers in the same field?

As a medical laboratory technician, you could specialize in something other than cytogenetics. For example, if you want to deal with germs, you could become a microbiology technologist, and if you want to work with hormones, you could become a clinical chemistry technician.

You could also work as a generalist, conducting a range of different types of examinations. If you desire to work in a sector other than medicine, you might become a forensic science technician, which entails doing chemical and biological testing for criminal investigations. A bachelor’s degree is required for this position.

A final thought about the Cytogenetic technologist certification

A cytogenetic technologist is a medical laboratory professional who studies the genetic contents found within cells.

These individuals mount biological specimens on slides for examination under a microscope or with other specialist medical equipment.

This Cytogenetic technologist certification program can be taken both online and offline depending on how you want it. Taking this program will make you become a professional certified cytogenetic technologist in the healthcare industry and will give you an upper when applying to fill a job position in this field.

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Cytotechnologist Job Description

Are you interested in knowing how to become a nuclear medicine technologist? Worry no more, you are among the fortunate ones to come across this article.

Nuclear medicine technicians are medical imaging experts who have extensive education and training in their field.

They collaborate closely with medical professionals and patients, utilizing radioactive chemical substances and specific pieces of equipment to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Overview of how to become a nuclear medicine technologist

The responsibilities of a nuclear medicine technologist as well as the qualifications necessary to fulfill those responsibilities might assist you in deciding whether or not to follow this line of work.

In this piece, we will describe the responsibilities of a nuclear medicine technologist, go over the qualifications needed for this line of work, and then run through the processes necessary to enter this field.

What exactly is meant by “Nuclear Medicine”?

Nuclear medicine is an imaging approach that does not need any intrusive procedures and is used to diagnose diseases and other issues that occur inside the body. Nuclear medicine technology can diagnose sickness or consequences based on metabolic or biological alterations rather than on anatomical or physical changes in the body.

When treating a patient, a technician in nuclear medicine administers the proper radiopharmaceuticals straight to the organ, tissue, or other internal structure that is sick with infection or sickness.

Who exactly is a nuclear medicine technologist?

A nuclear medicine technologist is a professional who possesses a high level of expertise and performs nuclear imaging tests while operating under the direction of a physician who has received extensive medical education.

Nuclear medicine technicians work with patients and utilize imaging equipment to evaluate how radioactive elements react and interact with a patient’s organs and tissues. This is done under the supervision of a physician who is educated in nuclear medicine.

What does a nuclear medicine technologist do?

The following is a list of the typical responsibilities they have:

• Utilization of imaging techniques in the process of diagnosing medical illnesses and diseases such as cancer
• Providing patients with an explanation of their test findings and medical treatments, as well as answering their queries on these topics.
• Participating in the review of imaging test findings with medical professionals to arrive at a definitive diagnosis
• When it comes to radiation exposure, following the medical safety protocols that have been established to protect both themselves and their patients from harm is essential.
• The process of preparing radioactive medications and then giving these treatments to a variety of patients
• Keeping an eye out for any untoward responses the radioactive medications may cause in patients
• Conducting imaging tests while operating imaging equipment and preparing it for use
• Keeping meticulous notes of all of a patient’s medical procedures

Types of Nuclear Medicine Technologist Specializations and Degrees

Technologists in nuclear medicine are required to have a degree of at least an associate’s level in nuclear medical technology or a discipline closely linked to it.

A professional who already possesses an associate’s degree or higher in a healthcare-related discipline is eligible to enter the workforce in this sector with merely the completion of a certificate program.

Through the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB), nuclear technologists have the opportunity to receive one of three specialized credentials. The acronyms PET, NCT, and CT stand for positron emission tomography, nuclear cardiology, and computed tomography, respectively.

What are the qualifications needed to become a nuclear medicine technologist?

You need to have a solid understanding of the standards that must be satisfied before you can embark on a career as a nuclear medicine technologist.

If you can fulfill these qualifications to a higher degree, you will have a better opportunity to get work in the field of nuclear medicine technology.

The following is a list of the primary prerequisites that you need to fulfill to become a nuclear medicine technologist:

• Education

Nuclear medicine technologists often need an Associate of Science degree in the field they work in. You also have the option of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in this profession; however, it is not necessarily necessary.

You are required to earn the degree from a recognized institution to proceed in any direction you choose.

Formal education in this industry will assist provide you with the information you need to thrive in this field and can help boost your marketability to potential employers.

• Accreditations and professional licenses

The need for certain licenses and certifications varies from state to state and employer to employer.

Not only do governments have the authority to decide if you need a certificate or license to practice this occupation, but certain companies also have that power.

Although becoming certified is not strictly required for nuclear medicine technicians, the vast majority of people working in this industry do so.

Earning certified makes you more marketable in this industry, and it also makes it simpler for you to compete against other people who are applying for jobs. This is similar to the effect that getting an official degree has.

It is also important to note that even though you do not need to be certified to receive your license, having a certification satisfies the majority of the requirements for getting a license. The prerequisites for obtaining a license differ from state to state, just as certificate programs.

Because of the rapidly advancing technology in this sector, it is essential to continue your professional development to keep your certification current. Keeping your certification current often requires you to complete a certain number of hours of continuing education.

• Skills

To properly carry out their professional responsibilities, nuclear medicine technologists require a wide range of both technical and interpersonal abilities. The following is a list of competencies that are often needed by nuclear medicine technologists:

• Attention to detail

Nuclear medicine technologists employ a keen eye for detail in the analysis of patient pictures, which enables them to diagnose a variety of illnesses and ailments.

In addition, you need to have strong attention to detail to adhere to the specific guidelines given for doses and to make sure that a patient is not overexposed to radiation.

• Technology skills

During their shift, nuclear medicine techs put their technical expertise to use by operating computers as well as a range of other pieces of technological equipment.

• Compassion

When dealing with patients, a nuclear medicine technologist has to exhibit empathy and compassion for those they are helping.

When someone is under mental and physical stress, it is your responsibility to not only reassure them but also assist them to relax and quiet down as much as you can.

• Interpersonal skills

Technologists who work in nuclear medicine need to have good interpersonal skills to communicate with patients, other members of their team, and a physician who supervises them efficiently.

The ability to connect and communicate effectively is directly correlated to the quality of care that is delivered.

• Abilities in mathematics and science

Technologists in nuclear medicine need to have excellent mathematical and scientific abilities that will allow them to solve difficulties and arrive at the correct decision.

• Strength and stamina

Technologists in nuclear medicine need to be able to stand for extended periods, hence they need to be physically fit.

Additionally, they need to have sufficient strength and stamina to be able to lift and transfer patients whenever it is necessary.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Pursue a Career in Nuclear Medicine Technology

Some individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in nuclear medicine technology decide to pursue it with only the most fundamental of education, while others pursue higher levels of education in the hopes that it will improve their chances of being hired and make it simpler for them to advance their careers.

This is how to do it, in order:

Step 1: Either obtain your high school diploma or your general equivalency diploma (GED) (Four Years)

Technologists in nuclear medicine are required to have a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Not only is this a prerequisite for entering the majority of programs that train nuclear medicine technologists.

It also proves that the candidate has completed a fundamental amount of schooling. Students who are interested in this line of work should concentrate their academic efforts on subjects such as mathematics, chemistry, and biology.

Step 2: Complete Your Education to Become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Two to Four Years)

Technologists who work in nuclear medicine are required to complete specific training. This can be done as part of a program leading to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, or as a certificate, provided the student already possesses at least an associate’s degree in an area that is relevant to this one.

As part of their education, students will take classes on topics such as radiation physics and instrumentation, imaging instrumentation, medical imaging pathology, and foundations of nuclear medicine.

In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in comprehensive clinical internships that provide them with real-world experience in their chosen industry.

Step 3: Obtain a Certification to Practice as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Timeline Varies)

Because it displays one’s level of competence in their chosen sector, certification comes highly recommended for nuclear medicine techs.

The Nuclear Medicine Technology Certifying Board (NMTCB) and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists  (ARRT) are the two principal certification agencies. Both of these organizations are located in the United States. You may get further information about certification in the following.

Step 4: Obtain Licensure from the State (Timeline Varies)

At present, obtaining a license to practice nuclear medicine is obligatory in at least 30 states. Because the requirements differ from state to state, applicants are encouraged to get in touch with their respective local boards to verify that they meet all of the prerequisites.

The majority of states call for an examination or national certification, along with educational documentation and a fee for the license.

FAQs about how to become a nuclear medicine technologist

See below for the answers to the most asked questions on how to become a nuclear medicine technologist;

• Where can one find technicians that specialize in nuclear medicine?

The vast majority of those who specialize in nuclear medicine work at medical facilities. Other nuclear medicine technologists find employment in medical practices, diagnostic labs, outpatient care facilities, and clinics.

• How does one go about their work as a nuclear medicine technologist throughout a shift?

Nuclear medicine techs often put in a full week’s worth of labor consisting of forty hours. When they are meant to be off duty, they could be required to answer calls even if they work at a medical facility, as is sometimes the case. Evening shifts, weekend shifts, and overnight shifts are all part of the job description for certain nuclear medicine techs.

• How Many Years of Schooling Are Necessary to Become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist?

To enter this profitable field, professionals who want to pursue education and certification conventionally need only spend two years in post secondary education to meet the requirements.

• What are some of the negative aspects of working in nuclear medicine?

1. Work hours that are extended.
2. The current state of the patients
3. Time pressure.

• Is there a lot of competition for jobs in the field of nuclear medicine technology?

The number of people employed as nuclear medicine technologists is expected to increase by 8 percent between the years 2020 and 2030, which is approximately the same rate of growth as the average for all occupations.

A final thought on how to become a nuclear medicine technologist

Your duties as a nuclear medical technologist include offering patients with explanations of procedures, responding to their inquiries, and doing everything you can to put them at rest by delivering care that is both compassionate and skilled.

Furthermore, you are required to thoroughly follow the instructions provided by the prescribing physician and gather any data that is asked before giving the medications.

You also need to make sure that these treatments, which include the use of radioactive elements, are carried out in an accurate and risk-free manner.

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Today, the top Nuclear Medicine Technologist Programs Online would be made known. Sit tight as we ride along.

Nuclear medicine technologists administer radiopharmaceuticals to help doctors diagnose and heal diseases.

They may also assist in emergency response during a nuclear disaster and assist researchers in the development of new imagery or therapy.

The faster-than-average job outlook of 5% and median pay of nearly $80,000 add to the appeal of this career. While being a nuclear medicine technologist is a very hands-on career, some of the college coursework required to become one can now be completed online.

This article provides an in-depth examination of online nuclear medicine technologist programs that combine remote coursework with on-site clinical training.

Who is a Nuclear Medicine Technologist?

A nuclear medicine technologist is a highly specialized healthcare professional who studies how the body works in order to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of conditions and diseases.

Imaging, patient care, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer technology, and medicine are all combined in nuclear medicine. Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, as well as other medications, to patients for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Online Schools

Three of the best nuclear medicine technologist programs that are currently available online, at least in part, are highlighted below to show you what to expect in terms of accreditation, affordability, and flexibility.

These programs will give you a good idea of what to look for in a quality program as you choose the right one for you, and they are all accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT).

1. Midlands Technical Institute

Midlands Technical College’s Academic Certificate in Nuclear Medicine Technology includes coursework and hands-on training that prepares graduates to take the ARRT and CNMT exams to become certified nuclear medicine technologists.

Some courses are entirely online, in addition to general education prerequisites, which can also be completed online. It offers one of the nuclear medicine technologist programs online.

Most classes and labs, however, are held in person at MTC’s Airport Campus in West Columbia, South Carolina, in the Health Sciences Building. In-person training at clinical sites in and around the Columbia metropolitan area is also required of students. The one-year program begins in the fall semester and concludes in the summer semester following.

The Nuclear Medicine Credential is an advanced certificate that requires students to have completed previous college Health Sciences and/or science coursework. Because this is an advanced certificate program, prospective students should speak with a Nuclear Medicine Technology program faculty member and/or a Midlands Technical College Health Sciences advisor as soon as possible.

Nuclear medicine technologists are trained in the safe handling and application of radioactive materials in the medical industry for diagnostic and therapeutic treatments. Nuclear medicine techs’ practical skills support nuclear medicine physicians by delivering clinical information that is relevant to patient diagnosis and therapy.

Acceptance into the advanced certificate program is limited to applicants who meet significant admissions criteria, such as a bachelor’s or associate’s degree and satisfactory completion of all MTC AAS in General Technology/Health Care coursework. Attending a program information session, performing two clinical observations, and completing a formal program interview are also admissions requirements.

This 39-credit hour program costs approximately $6,942 not including equipment and fees. Scholarships and other forms of financial assistance are available.

2. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers nuclear medicine technology bachelor’s degree and certificate programs with significant online components. The bachelor’s degree is primarily for Boston-area students and is available in two study formats.

The Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology – Accelerated program is designed for students who have had little or no prior college-level coursework. The three-year, 121-credit-hour program begins each fall with the general education and general science course requirements that most healthcare-related bachelor’s programs require.

Students complete a curriculum that combines major-subject didactic coursework presented in a synchronous online format with clinical experiences attended in-person at facilities beginning in the summer of year two and continuing through year three.

3. Chattanooga State Community College

Students interested in becoming licensed and certified nuclear medicine technologists have two options at Chattanooga State Community College, beginning with the AAS in Nuclear Medicine Technology degree.

The 44-credit hour full-time program includes one year of general education courses, followed by one year of major-specific online didactic coursework, on-campus labs (typically once per month), and in-person training at an approved clinical practice site. The AAS program currently costs $11,179 for Tennessee residents and $15,274 for out-of-state residents.

Also, the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certificate program at CSCC is intended for current radiation technologists, medical technologists, nurses, and others in related fields who hold an associate’s (or higher) degree and have national certification.

The one-year, 40-credit hour program includes the same courses, labs, and clinical training requirements as the AAS degree program’s second year. The certificate program is estimated to cost $9,334 for Tennessee residents and $13,226 for out-of-state residents.

Different Kinds of Online Nuclear Medicine Programs

Nuclear medicine technology programs are offered by colleges and universities across the United States. Most are on campus, but a few offer some or all of their didactic courses completely or partially online.

There are associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as professional certificates, available to students at various stages of their academic and career journeys.

• Associate Degrees

Students with no prior education or certification in radiology or any closely related technologist field can obtain licensure and professional certification with an associate degree in nuclear medicine technology.

Associate degree programs typically require two years of study, with the first year consisting of general education courses and the second year consisting of nuclear medicine-specific coursework and hands-on training.

Admission typically necessitates the completion of a high school diploma or GED, as well as a small number of prerequisite science and healthcare-related college-level courses.

• A Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology online is an excellent option for individuals who want to become certified nuclear medicine technologists while also planning for career advancement into leadership positions in the healthcare field.

These programs usually include general education and major-specific courses that are completed entirely online or in a hybrid format. Students must participate in hands-on training at clinical sites in the school’s or student’s local area, as with all other online nuclear medicine programs.

Additionally, depending on the amount and type of previously completed transferable college-level coursework, students may have the option of taking standard (four-year) or accelerated (two-year to three-year) courses of study.

• Certificate Programs

Nuclear medicine technology certificates are intended for current healthcare professionals who want to obtain the specialized education and training required to become certified nuclear medicine technologists.

Admission requirements vary by program, but most require an associate or bachelor’s degree as well as current certification (or eligibility for certification) in a radiologic or medical imaging field. Curriculums are solely focused on the didactic coursework and in-person clinical training required for licensure, certification, and registration as a nuclear medicine technologist. One-year programs are quite common.

The Nuclear Medicine Certificate is a full-time program. Admission is only open to individuals who meet the admissions requirements.

Each autumn semester, the certificate program begins and finishes with the summer semester. Students will obtain clinical training in nuclear medicine departments at affiliated hospitals.

Conclusion on the Nuclear Medicine Technologist Programs Online

Nuclear medicine technologists use cutting-edge imaging equipment to make diagnostic images by administering radioactive materials to patients.

Hospitals and doctors’ offices employ these technologists. Graduates of MTC can sit for the certification exam to become Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologists (CNMT).

Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals (radioactive drugs) to patients, as well as operate sophisticated imaging equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of illnesses and diseases.

Online nuclear medicine programs provide students with the education and training they need to perform those duties consistently, responsibly, safely, and effectively.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Programs Online; Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you will find the answers to the most asked questions about the Nuclear Medicine Technologist Programs Online;

1. Is a nuclear medicine technologist in high demand?

Nuclear medicine technologists’ employment is expected to grow at a rate similar to the national average from 2020 to 2030.

On average, 1,500 openings for nuclear medicine technologists are expected each year over the next decade.

2. Is working as a nuclear medicine technologist stressful?

Woiwode describes her job as stressful because some of her patients are critically ill. Sometimes they are physically unable to move into position for the images that the doctor requires, so it can be difficult to find a way to keep patients comfortable while still obtaining the necessary images.

3. Can I get my nuclear medicine technologist training entirely online?

While you may complete some or all of your didactic coursework online, due to the hands-on nature of the subject, you will still need to attend some classes in person.

In-person training will also be required, typically at clinical practice sites on and around the school’s campus or in your local area.

4. What are the costs of online nuclear medicine technologist programs?

The total cost of online nuclear medicine programs varies greatly depending on the type of program (associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or certificate) and whether the school is public or private (private school programs tend to be more expensive). We’ve listed the current tuition rates for three nuclear power plants.

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Today, we bring to you the perfect approach to How to become a radiologic technologist.

To begin, radiology is a branch of medicine that uses medical imaging to diagnose diseases and develop treatment plans for patients.

Radiologic technologists are doctors who perform diagnostic imaging procedures such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and computed tomography (CT) scans. Some specialize in specific techniques like cardiovascular-interventional radiography, mammography, or sonography. Radiologic technologists are in charge of accurately positioning patients and producing high-quality diagnostic images.

They collaborate closely with radiologists, who interpret medical images to diagnose or rule out disease or injury.

The imaging examination must be performed correctly by a radiologic technologist in order for the images to be correctly interpreted by the radiologist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment will increase by 21% between 2012 and 2022.

As the population ages, there will be an increase in medical conditions that require imaging to diagnose, such as osteoporosis-related breaks and fractures.

According to a 2005 survey of radiologic technologists, the top reasons professionals entered this field were that they wanted a challenging career and to work in a field that helped people.

Who is a Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists may specialize in imaging techniques such as bone densitometry, cardiac or vascular interventional radiography, computed tomography (CT), mammography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, or sonography. They collaborate with doctors and radiologists to create precise and detailed images.

A radiologic technologist’s job is to use an imaging device to capture radiology imaging on patients. However, they also have several other responsibilities to fulfill on a daily basis, which include:

• Getting patients ready for imaging exams and positioning them
• adjusting equipment to achieve the best possible image quality
• Some patients are being treated with radiation (under guidance from the medical team)
• Ensure patient comfort and safety during imaging
• Patients are educated and explained the imaging exam procedure.
• Following physician orders regarding which areas of the body to image
• Keeping medical records in the patient’s EMR (electronic medical records)
• Working with the medical team and other healthcare providers
• To avoid exposing themselves, patients, or coworkers to radiation, they must follow safety protocols and use shielding devices
• Sterilization and storage

Where Radiologic Technologists work

Radiologic technologists are most commonly seen working in a hospital on a specialized radiology unit. When patients require imaging, they are transferred to the radiology unit.

Some radiologists, on the other hand, can travel throughout the hospital to perform imaging in the patient’s room. For emergency purposes, some emergency departments have their own designated radiology rooms.

There are also opportunities for a radiologic technologist to work in a variety of other settings, such as:

• Outpatient imaging facilities
• Universities and colleges
• Doctor’s offices
• Diagnostic and medical laboratories
• Outpatient services
• Therapy Facilities
• Intensive care unit
• Triage facilities
• Urgent care facilities

Radiologic technologists are also sometimes in charge of staffing and dealing with emergencies. As a result, they may work unusual hours, such as weekends, evenings, and holidays. Radiologic technologists can work full-time, part-time, or on a per-diem basis, depending on the job.

How to become a Radiologic Technologist

Not every radiologic technologist takes the same path to success in their career. While some technologists may enroll in a two-year radiologic technologist program, others will pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Each career path is distinct, with rad-tech candidates coming from a variety of medical backgrounds. The following are the most direct steps to becoming a radiologic technologist:

Step 1: Complete high school (four years): Any radiologic technologist must have a high school diploma (or its equivalent).

If you want to work in the field as soon as you finish high school, you should focus on science and mathematics classes.

These will be beneficial in terms of future educational opportunities. High school students should also try to work or volunteer in a healthcare setting if possible to get a sense of what the career will entail.

Step 2: Apply for and enroll in a two to four-year accredited undergraduate radiologic technology program: Radiologic technologists may earn either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree to be eligible for certification from the ARRTAll applicants for ARRT certification in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiation Therapy, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or Sonography must have graduated from a school accredited by a body recognized by the ARRT by June 2021.

ARRT maintains a comprehensive list of those accrediting agencies. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree rather than an associate’s degree does not increase an applicant’s qualification for certification. Nonetheless, it may aid in furthering one’s education or in locating and matching job opportunities. It should be noted that, while the degree must be obtained from an accredited institution, it does not have to be in radiologic technology.

Step 3: Apply for ARRT certification and registration (duration varies): There are no national licensing requirements for radiologic technologists, as previously stated, though many states have their own licensing process.

Most radiologic technologists choose to pursue ARRT certification to increase their employability and establish expertise. This procedure entails providing proof of an acceptable academic record, completing and submitting an ethics pre-application, and passing an exam that “assesses the knowledge and cognitive skills underlying the intelligent performance of tasks typically required of entry-level staff technologists in the discipline.” For entry-level positions, the most applicable certification is in radiography.

After gaining experience in this role, radiologic technologists may wish to pursue specialty certification with the ARRT in areas such as mammography, bone densitometry, or cardiac-interventional radiography. Radiography, nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy, MRI, and sonography are some of the specializations available.

Step 4: Renew your ARRT certification every two years: Technologists must renew their certifications every two years, which requires first complying with all ARRT regulations, following the ARRT standards of ethics, and completing the required number of continuing education hours. To maintain their certification, renewing technologists must either earn 24 credit hours per year or be awarded additional certifications from the ARRT in other specialties.

Salary and Prospects for Radiologic Technologists

If you’re interested in pursuing this career, you’re probably curious about some important career details.

First and foremost, how much do radiologic technologists earn? And what is the field’s job outlook? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for radiologic technologists in 2020 was $61,900. This is higher than the national average for all occupations, which is $41,950, according to the BLS.

Earning potential varies depending on the type of facility in which you work. Outpatient care center radiologic technologists typically earn the highest pay. The following logical question concerns job availability.

According to the BLS, employment of radiologic technologists is expected to grow at a rate of 9% through 2030, which is faster than the national average for all occupations. This expansion can be attributed to the aging Baby-Boomer population, which necessitates more diagnostic imaging procedures.

Skills of a Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists must have certain abilities.

Working with radiation and specialized imaging equipment may sound intimidating, but radiologic technicians also require a wide range of soft skills. You can gain all of the expertise you need to excel in this rewarding healthcare career with the right education and training.

Top technical skills for radiologic technologists include:

1. X-ray/radiography equipment
2. Treatment of patients
3. Cardiovascular resuscitation (CPR)
4. Control and quality assurance
5. Mammography
6. Life-sustaining measures
7. Radiation defense
8. Ultrasound
9. Patient planning
10. Patient education and training

Top transferable skills for radiologic technologists include:

1. Communication\sResearch\sTeamwork/collaboration
2. Relationship development Computer literacy
3. Physical skills
4. Organization\sProblem
5. Writing Problem Solving
6. Detail-orientedness

If you can identify with the transferable skills listed above, you may be predisposed to success as a radiologic technologist.

All that is lacking are the technical skills required to carry out the job duties, which can be obtained through a Radiologic Technology degree program.

Conclusion on the How to become a radiologic technologist

The job entails taking diagnostic images of patients in a clinical setting. A radiologic technologist’s images are typically captured using an x-ray machine or other imaging equipment.

While technologists do not interpret the images, they ensure that they are clear enough for physicians and radiologists to examine and use to make accurate diagnoses.

Furthermore, technologists keep sophisticated imaging equipment in good working order and enforce safety standards around potentially hazardous equipment. They also work closely with patients to ensure that they are comfortable and well-informed during procedures, treatments, or check-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to become a radiologic technologist

Below, you will find the answers to the most asked questions about the How to become a radiologic technologist;

1. How long does it take to train as a radiology technician?

There are one-year training and certificate programs for radiology technicians, as well as two- to four-year associate’s and bachelor’s degrees.

2. Is it possible to train as a radiology technician online?

A number of accredited online radiology technology schools provide associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. You must, however, report in person for supervised radiologic technologist training.

3. Are radiology technicians paid more than nurses?

The median pay for radiology technicians in 2020 was $60,510, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a registered nurse in 2019 is $73,300, or $35.24 per hour.

4. What is a radiologic technologist’s working environment like?

Most radiologist technicians work 40 hours per week. They may work nights, weekends, and holidays.

They may have to stand for long periods of time during the day to operate the radiography machines. They may be required to assist patients with mobility issues on occasion.

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