Radiological Technologist

Job Purpose: Take x-rays and CAT scans or administer nonradioactive materials into patient's bloodstream for diagnostic or research purposes.

Requirements:

• Associate’s Degree or equivalent experience.

Tasks:

• Position imaging equipment and adjust controls to set exposure time and distance, according to specification of examination.
• Position patient on examining table and set up and adjust equipment to obtain optimum view of specific body area as requested by physician.
• Monitor patients' conditions and reactions, reporting abnormal signs to physician.
• Explain procedures and observe patients to ensure safety and comfort during scan.
• Use radiation safety measures and protection devices to comply with government regulations and to ensure safety of patients and staff.
• Review and evaluate developed x-rays, video tape, or computer-generated information to determine if images are satisfactory for diagnostic purposes.
• Determine patients' x-ray needs by reading requests or instructions from physicians.
• Prepare contrast material, radiopharmaceuticals, or anesthetic or antispasmodic drugs under the direction of a radiologist.
• Process exposed radiographs using film processors or computer generated methods.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Active Listening and Speaking Skills.
• Social Perceptiveness and Service Orientation Skills.
• Reading Comprehension Skills.
• Monitoring Skills.
• Critical Thinking Skills.
• Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• Knowledge of electronic equipment.

Abilities:

• Oral and Written Comprehension.
• Deductive and Inductive Reasoning.
• Clarity of Speech.

Work Activities:

• Operate diagnostic imaging equipment.
• Adjust settings or positions of medical equipment.
• Prepare medical supplies or equipment for use.
• Position patients for treatment or examination.
• Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
• Explain medical procedures or test results to patients or family members.
• Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
• Check quality of diagnostic images.
• Analyze patient data to determine patient needs or treatment goals.
• Verify that medical activities or operations meet standards.