subject: What To Expect Of A Radiology Tech [print this page] In order to peruse further into the complex mechanism of the human body, it is essential to be able to see its goings-on without having to resort to invasive methods. Short of prodding and poking the affected area to derive some form of findings, rays or beams of certain specifications perform the job with virtually no pain. The radiology technician or technologist comes into the scene as part of his trained profession to take pictures of the region of interest. Normally areas of such are due to injury, disease or condition of various reasons.
Often the case is the importance placed on this group of health care professionals. At times, they are superseded by other medical practitioners who are bestowed with higher authority and knowledge. This is possibly due to the misconception that a task only requires one to instruct a patient to get himself into position and hold his breath before the image is taken. Far from it, the task is actually more complex as incorrect placement of limb, direction or focus onto the region of interest may cause other parties to form inaccurate analysis of the condition. As such, the radiology tech holds an important job to ensure the correct images are taken in order for the radiologist and others concerned to do their part.
Most of those who start off in this career are placed in areas of general radiography dealing with X-rays. As time progresses as well as interest, some may venture into other aspects of this field by familiarizing themselves with other specialties. Areas to branch into normally encompass the ability to carry out sonograms, CT scans and MRI examinations. In the event of patients not demonstrating cooperation during the process, holders of this profession may need to practice soft skills in relating to their distress and gently coax them towards a calmer disposition and correct placement of limb. Otherwise, the radiology tech may need to resort to more radical methods to get the job done.
Although one is trained to spot irregularities in the pictures taken, it is not his responsibility to share his findings with the patient. It is therefore of utmost importance that communication is kept internally between technician and radiologist to avoid confusion.
