A radiographic technologist controls a variety of x-ray equipment to perform diagnostic imaging examinations (3), that leads to the patients’ diagnosis, treatment, and cure (2). They may work directly with radiologists and are to provide precise pictures by setting the patient properly and adjusting equipment controls. Technologists also interact with patients by discussing the procedure, answering any questions they may have, and ensuring that patients are in a comfortable environment (1). As x-rays are understood to be ionizing radiation, it can cause damage at an atomic level (5). To protect the patients, public, team members, and oneself it is important for radiographers to use proper radiation safety techniques using the ALARA (as low …show more content…
Throughout the profession, technologists continue to further develop their skills to communicate with patients effectively by demonstrating compassion and empathy, as well as cooperating in a team environment with other members of the healthcare team in a professional manner (doctors, nurses, radiologists, etc...) (2). Being that radiographers have several responsibilities, it is essential that they maintain a high level of accuracy in their duties, constantly being aware of new technologies that are being introduced, and possessing both problem-solving and critical thinking skills (3). With additional education and training, a radiographer can specialize in many areas, for instance, MRI and CT (1). Additionally, they can go into administration and manage entire radiology departments, pursuing research by discovering new breakthroughs in technology, or teaching emerging students going into the field (2). The national professional association and certifying body for technologists are the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) …show more content…
This information is used in conjunction with the past and relevant patient history data from physical examinations to make an analysis. Sonographers report data to physicians and educate patients by promoting a healthy lifestyle and good health. Diagnostic medical sonographers may work in hospitals or clinical settings, work on shifts that can include evenings and weekends, and required to be on call as well (1). They need to exhibit many tasks such as following established regulatory procedures, evaluating sonograms, and making accurate decisions of acquiring optimum diagnostic sonographic information in each session. Moreover, sonographers are required some physical tasks such as lifting patients, moving heavy equipment and wheelchairs (2). Sound waves that are used in ultrasound are not classified as dangerous, but there are some risks by the sonographer that may include exposure to blood-borne pathogens (2) and repeated, prolonged motions in difficult positions leading to strain injuries (1). Additionally it can be emotionally taxing as it can be stressful working with patients that have anxiety, and experiencing unpleasant odors and sights. Therefore, it is important for sonographers to be in good health, specifically regarding upper body and shoulder strength. Sonographers need to be able to pay close attention to
The role of the radiologist is one that has undergone numerous changes over the years and continues to evolve a rapid pace. Radiologists specialize in the diagnoses of disease through obtaining and interpreting medical images. There are a number of different devices and procedures at the disposal of a radiologist to aid him or her in these diagnoses’. Some images are obtained by using x-ray or other radioactive substances, others through the use of sound waves and the body’s natural magnetism. Another sector of radiology focuses on the treatment of certain diseases using radiation (RSNA). Due to vast clinical work and correlated studies, the radiologist may additionally sub-specialize in various areas. Some of these sub-specialties include breast imaging, cardiovascular, Computed Tomography (CT), diagnostic radiology, emergency, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), musculoskeletal, neuroradiology, nuclear medicine, pediatric radiology, radiobiology, and Ultrasound (Schenter). After spending a vast amount of time on research and going to internship at the hospital, I have come to realize that my passion in science has greatly intensified. Furthermore, both experiences helped to shape up my future goals more prominently than before, which is coupled with the fact that I have now established a profound interest in radiology, or rather nuclear medicine.
Diagnostic medical sonography is a profession where sonographers direct high-frequency sound waves into a patient’s body through the use of specific equipment to diagnose or monitor a patient’s medical condition. As described by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this examination is referred to as an ultrasound, sonogram, or echocardiogram. The high-frequency sound waves emitted from the handheld device, called a transducer, bounce back creating an echo and therefore produce an image that can be viewed on the sonographers computer screen. This image provides the sonographer and physician with an internal image of the patient’s body that will be used in the diagnosis. The most familiar use of ultrasound is used in monitoring pregnancies and is provided by obstetric and gynecologic sonographers, who also provide imaging of the female reproductive system. Other types of sonography include; abdominal sonography, breast sonography, musculoskeletal sonography, neurosonography and cardiovascular sonography. Due to the vast nature of uses in sonography, most professionals study one field that they choose to specialize in. Diagnostic medical sonography is a rapidly growing field because of the increase in medical advances. The area of Cleveland, Ohio has continued to rise in the medical field with great strides, providing better career prospects with the availability of numerous employment positions.
To begin with, how has technology changed the field of radiology? Since the discovery of X-radiation there has been a need and desire for studying the human body and the diseases without actually any intervention. Over the past fifty years there has been a revolution in the field of radiology affecting medicine profoundly. “The ability to produce computers powerful enough to reconstruct accurate body images, yet small enough to fit comfortably in the radiology department, has been the major key to this progress”(Gerson 66). The core of radiology’s vast development consists of four diagnostic techniques: computed tomography (CT), digital subtraction angiography (DSA), ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These methods of diagnostic imaging provide accurate information that was not seen before. Amid this information advancement, radiologists have broadened their role of diagnostician. Gerson writes, “With the advent of computer-enhanced imagery and new interventional techniques, these physicians are able to take an active part in performing therapeutic procedures”(66). A radiology breakthrough in 1972 was computed tomography discovered by Godfrey Hounsfield and Allan Cormack. Unlike standard radiography, computed tomography would spin the X-ray tube 360 degrees and inversely another 360 degrees while the patient ta...
Do diagnostic Medical Sonographers actually help begin a new life? Yes, according to researchers they do help patients indicate any problems that there may be and what may be expected. This essay will talk about Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and everything it takes to become one and how to become successful as well as why they are important to our global community. Sonographer’s are also known as ultrasound Technicians, they are very important in the medical field because they help patients and physicians diagnose and treat diseases as well as other medical information. The following paragraphs will talk about the information of the Salary and also the Job Responsibilities. With the technicians continuously providing
Radiologic Technologists use radiation to produce images of tissue, organs, and vessels that make up the body, as well as cancer, tumors, broken bones, and tumors (Cape Fear Community College). If a person is in the medical imaging field to become a Radiologic Technologist to help people, this part of the job is what grabs their attention, because as soon as they find these problems they omit the images to a doctor that helps take care of it. Radiologic Technologist is a branch of Health Science Cluster Diagnostic services pathway (OkCollegeStart). When a person’s knows where their career choice starts it helps get a better overview of where to start and helps get them where they want to be. Radiologic Technologists review and evaluate developed x-ray, videotape, or computer generated information to determine if images are “satisfactory for diagnostic purposes” (OkCollegeStart). Persons who are more technology driven are attracted to this career because of the technology a person gets to use and process. Radiologic
Being able to identify lumps, swelling, tissue damage, cysts, and the overwhelming news of the sex of a baby all have something in common, an ultrasound. Swelling of the spleen, kidney stones, blood clots, aneurysms, cancer and so much more can be identified through the works of an ultrasound’s imaging technique. Ultrasound involves many concepts, procedures, and careers. The amount of medical possibilities involved with ultrasounds is useful in major medical diagnostics. The field of ultrasounds and career opportunities are widely growing. As medical careers flourish, needs for technicians in many fields of medicine are increasing. Instead of a doctor choosing complex and risky surgery to find out problems within the body, they can now choose a safer path; the ultrasound path. Patient’s history and physical evaluation are building blocks to diagnostics but ultrasounds are much greater. They are powerful tools used to see beyond the skin into the depths of a person’s body. What ultrasounds are, what types there are, and what they are used for, and the education and careers available are the major themes found in research on the subject. Knowledge of ultrasound and its background may help one decide what career is best for them. Understanding the wide array of diagnostic tests and their uses are essential to figuring out what a career as a sonographer entails and the type of education that is needed. Because there are plenty of possibilities for specializing with different technologies, there is a wide variety of job opportunities in the medical imaging career. The call for ultrasound’s assistance opens new paths in future high-quality careers.
The amount of career opportunities involved with the profession are endless. Virtual Job Shadow estimates that there are about 75,000 Ultrasound Technicians in the world and half are working in hospitals. By far, hospitals are the most common employers for sonographers but doctor’s offices are not too far behind. Labs, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes are other establishments that Ultrasound Technicians can be found. These jobs are highly competitive and they demand a high level of attention and accuracy. As medical careers flourish, needs for technicians in many fields of medicine are increasing. Instead of a doctor choosing complex and risky surgery to find out problems within the body, they can now choose a safer path; the ultrasound path. Patient’s history and physical evaluation are building blocks to diagnostics but ultrasounds are much greater. While the field of Ultrasound Technology is a popular in the health care industry, there are still a fairly small number of people in the
Apart of becoming a new patient at a dental office is taking an x-ray and some may have question along with taking an x-ray, like “will I be affected by the x-ray?” or “will I get cancer?”, “how long will it take” “are x-ray’s safe?”, the list goes on and on. So in this paper we will talk about different types of radiation affects such as affects on children and pregnant women as well as some things that may help reduce some of the radiation that may harm the human body.
...why does the technologist step behind a shield to prevent exposure to themself?" The radiation dose for each exam is relatively small, but over time, the dose can add up. There are many state and federal regulations limiting the total radiation dose that may be received by people working with radiation. To comply with those regulations, the technologist must follow strict precautions to keep their cumulative exposure to a minimum.
Radiation therapists work closely with patients to fight cancer. According to Health Care Careers, Oncologists, Dosimetrists and nurses are some of the professionals that a radiation therapist works with while caring for a cancer patient. This group of professionals will determine a specialized treatment plan. The first step usually includes a CT scan performed by a radiologist to find the exact area that needs to be targeted with x-rays. Next, the therapist uses a special machine that emits radiation called a Linear Accelerator. They use this machine during a treatment called external beam therapy. During this process, the Linear Accelerator will project x-rays at targeted cancer cells or tumors. Another therapist will be in a different room monitoring the patient’s viral signs until the procedure is over. The external therapy l...
Modern medicine is capable of treating a tremendous range of human disease and injuries, but the usefulness of all medical specialties depends on accurate diagnosis. Virtually every conceivable medical specialty relies on radiological technologies to provide formal diagnoses, making radiology one of the most important of all medical specialties. Radiologists enjoy some of the best working conditions in modern medicine and typically experience very positive employment conditions. Consequently, their services are generally in very high demand, with many starting out with six-figure annual incomes immediately after completion of their professional training.
Radiology technology is a science of using radiation to produce images. There are many jobs you can perform in diagnostic imaging usually a radiologic technologist will oft...
Medical Physics page 159-188. Diagnostic radiographers also work closely with all members of the health care team as the images produced can affect and determine the treatment and care a patient receives. The role of a radiographer is vitally important to other members of a healthcare team- the diagnosis from a radiographer’s image can affect and determine the treatment and care of a healthcare team. Being a diagnostic radiographer takes a special kind of person combining skilled use of highly technical equipment with excellent interpersonal skills.
I am attending Baton Rouge General School of Radiologic Technology to pursue an Associates degree through Northwestern State University to become a licensed radiologic technologist. I chose this profession because I thoroughly enjoy helping others and making a difference in people’s lives. Radiologic technologists are expected to give efficient patient care while following the doctor’s order to proceed with the X-ray examination. Radiology is the most important role in healthcare because with out having X-rays, the surgeons could not see inside of the patient’s body to perform surgery. Doctors can not predict what is going on inside of a patient without having an X-ray. I am interested in this being my future career because
I was under the assumption that Radiology was primarily X-ray. I couldn’t be more wrong! The RT 100 course, does an outstanding job helping students understand all that is involved within the department. Exploring modalities, equipment, expectations, and organizations, gave us, the students, plenty to contemplate. Material presented, gave me a firm foundation on what I will need to consider, assuming this will be the field of science I choose to pursue. I also feel that if I continue, there will be no surprises on what is expected of me because practically every detail is discussed within the