There are a good number of career roles available for the students after the completion of their X-Ray Technology Course. They are basically hired in hospitals, diagnostic centres, community health centres, polyclinics. The present article tries to explore some of the important job roles available after the completion of a diploma in X-Ray Technology course.
Radiographer
The radiographers are required to diagnose the internal parts of the human body in case of an injury with the help of X-Ray equipment.
Role of a Radiographer
The radiographers are required to diagnose the patients with different types of radiation equipment like X-rays, CT Scan, MRI, NMR, etc. The radiographers perform the procedures using contrast agents along with equipment and make it possible the study organs for the doctors.
Responsibilities of a Radiographer
As a radiographer one is responsible to:
- Assess patients and their clinical requirements to work out which radiographic techniques to use
- Perform a range of radiographic examination on patients to produce high quality images
- Take responsibility for radiation safety in the work area, including checking equipment for malfunctions and errors
- Manage referrals to ensure patients receive a radiation dose as low as reasonably possible
- Supervise visiting staff and patients in radiation work areas
- Help in more complex radiological examinations, working with doctors such as radiologists and surgeons
- Provide support and reassurance to patients, taking into account their physical and psychological needs
- Supervise radiography and imaging support assistants
- Keep up to date with health and safety guidelines including ionising radiation, regulations, to protect yourself and others
Salary & Emoluments
The fresh diploma in x-ray technology students will be earning around 2.5 lakhs to 3 lakhs per annum as radiographers. The experienced professionals will be earning around 3 lakhs to 4 lakhs per annum. The salary depends upon location and recruiters.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists (CT Scan Technologists)
The Computer Tomography (CT) Technologists are responsible for taking detailed cross-sectional images of the internal structures of the human body.
Role of the CT Scan Technologists
The CT scan technologists mainly use the required equipment to take a clear image of the internal parts of the human body to check for any abnormalities. They will be using advanced X-ray technology equipment for obtaining the results.
Responsibilities of the CT Scan Technologists
As a CT scan technologist, one is responsible to:
- Using computerised tomography equipment to capture diagnostic images of patient’s internal organs and tissues
- Appropriately positioning patients to scan specific areas of their bodies
- Performing regular warm-up sequences on the CT scanner to prolong the life of the x-ray tubes
- Sterilizing radiologic equipment to ensure the safety of patients
- Correctly interpreting doctors written scanning instructions
- Administering radiocontrast agents to patients to enhance the visibility of internal organs and tissues
- Evaluating CT scans to determine whether they are of good technical quality
- Explaining scanning procedures to patients and providing reassurance and support as required
Salary & Emoluments
The fresh diploma in x-ray technology students will be earning around 2 lakhs to 3.5 lakhs per annum as CT Scan Technologists. The experienced professionals will be earning around 3.5 lakhs to 4.5 lakhs per annum. The salary depends upon location and recruiters.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
The Diagnostic medical sonographer combines creativity with the advanced knowledge of human anatomy. The diagnostic medical sonographer uses the equipment that emits advanced ultrasound waves and tries to construct the images of the human body and the internal organs.
Role of the Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
The Diagnostic Medical Sonographers use high-frequency sonography to generate the images of the internal structures of the body. The diagnostic medical sonographers prepare the reports by analysing the restructured images. These images help the doctors to prescribe accurate treatments for the patients.
Responsibilities of the Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
As a diagnostic medical sonographer, one is needed to:
- Explaining sonographic procedures to patients answering questions, preparing patients by applying to get the skin and positioning the patients on the table
- Ensuring clear images for diagnostic purposes and making adjustments to the sonographic equipment when necessary
- Selecting the appropriate settings and adjusting the patients positions accordingly
- Monitoring and caring for patients to ensure their safety and comfort during the procedures
- Selecting and examining images looking for differences between healthy and pathological areas and determining if the scope of the exam should be extended, based on preliminary findings
- Presenting the sonograms and preliminary findings for the physicians
- Completing the appropriate documentation and maintaining patient’s histories and medical records
- Assisting physicians and the healthcare teams during invasive procedures
- Maintaining and cleaning procedures such as administering oxygen, taking vital signs and giving emergency treatments
Salary & Emoluments
The fresh diploma in x-ray technology students will be earning around 2.5 lakhs to 3 lakhs per annum as a diagnostic medical sonographer. The experienced professionals will be earning around 3.5 lakhs to 4 lakhs per annum. The salary depends upon location and recruiters.
Mammographer
The mammographers use ionizing radiations by using sophisticated mammography equipment. This equipment will produce the images of the breasts for conducting the tests. The doctors use these images for screening, diagnosis and treatment purposes.
Role of Mammographers
The mammographers are responsible to create clear images that can be read by the radiologists, oncologists so that the diagnosis is done accurately. The doctors prescribe the proper treatments for the patients based on the reports obtained by the mammographers.
The mammographers should be capable of calming the patients coming for the mammography equipment. Since the mammography is the stressful procedure, the mammographers should make the patients comfortable and make them mentally prepared for the mammography procedures.
Responsibilities of a Mammographer
As a mammographer one is responsible to
- Practice safe procedures and adhere to the radiation safety measures under the supervision of the radiology supervisor
- Complete patient education regarding the test
- Promote privacy for the patient
- Promote comfort for the patient
- Perform diagnostic or screening mammogram as prescribed by the physician
- Prepare the equipment and assist the radiologist in the completion of intricate mammography examinations including breast biopsies
- Produce high quality film for the radiologist to evaluate
- Complete appropriate documentation
- Perform quality control functions related to mammography
- Assist in compilation and maintenance of statistical data
- Follow infection control and safety guidance
- Demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology and medical terminology
- Maintain high degree of accuracy in mammography positioning and exposure techniques
- Use professional and ethical judgement and critical thinking when performing their duties
- Skilled operation of mammography equipments
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
Salary & Emoluments
The fresh diploma in x-ray technology students will be earning around 2.5 lakhs to 3 lakhs per annum as mammographers. The experienced professionals will be earning around 3 lakhs to 4 lakhs per annum. The salary depends upon location and recruiters.
Conclusion
The increase in the patients has resulted in creating ample job opportunities across the various sectors of healthcare. The students who are passionate about the radio-waves and microwaves can choose to join the Diploma in X-Ray Technology.
The demand for skilled professionals has increased in the last decade in the field of radiology. The diploma in X-Ray Technology students have wide career scope and ample job opportunities. The students with Diploma in X-Ray Technology, can land easily at various job positions and can earn a handsome salary with good career growth prospects. The students interested in x-ray techniques can join this course.