Radiologic and MRI Technologists

Radiologic and MRI Technologists typically perform the following 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. • Operate mobile x-ray equipment in operating room, emergency room, or at patient's bedside. • Make exposures necessary for the requested procedures, rejecting and repeating work that does not meet established standards. • Operate or oversee operation of radiologic or magnetic imaging equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes. • Operate digital picture archiving communications systems. • Perform procedures, such as linear tomography, mammography, sonograms, joint and cyst aspirations, routine contrast studies, routine fluoroscopy, or examinations of the head, trunk, or extremities under supervision of physician. • Provide assistance to physicians or other technologists in the performance of more complex procedures. • Record, process, and maintain patient data or treatment records and prepare reports. • Take thorough and accurate patient medical histories. • Key commands and data into computer to document and specify scan sequences, adjust transmitters and receivers, or photograph certain images. • Operate fluoroscope to aid physician to view and guide wire or catheter through blood vessels to area of interest. • Set up examination rooms, ensuring that all necessary equipment is ready.