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How to Become an X-Ray Technician: A Step-By-Step Guide
If you’re looking for a career in the medical field that offers both challenge and reward, then becoming an x-ray technician may be the perfect fit for you. But how do you become an x-ray technician?
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to become an x-ray technician in the united states We’ll cover everything from completing
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Introduction
An X-ray technician is a professional who uses medical imaging technologies to produce images of the human body. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat injuries and diseases.
X-ray technicians must be licensed in order to practice. To become licensed, X-ray technicians must complete an accredited radiologic technology program and pass a national exam. Some states also require licensure by the state in which the technician plans to practice.
Radiologic technology programs are available at many community colleges and technical schools. These programs typically take two years to complete and lead to an Associate’s degree or certificate. Programs typically include coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical ethics, and patient care, as well as clinical experience.
After completion of an accredited radiologic technology program, X-ray technicians must pass a national exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT offers examinations in several specialty areas, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and radiation therapy. In order to be eligible to take the ARRT examination, candidates must have completed an accredited radiologic technology program and meet other requirements set by the ARRT.
In addition to passing the national exam administered by the ARRT, some states require X-ray technicians to be licensed by the state in which they plan to practice. To become licensed, X-ray technicians must submit an application to the state licensing board and pay a fee. Some states require licensure by reciprocity, which allows X-ray technicians who are licensed in another state to become licensed in their new state without taking an additional examination.
What is an X-Ray Technician?
An X-ray technician, also known as a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who uses imaging technology to provide diagnostic patient care. As an X-ray tech, you will operate X-ray machines and perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as chest X-rays and bone density scans. In addition to providing diagnostic services, you will also be responsible for patient care before and after their procedures.
To become an X-ray technician, you will need to completing an accredited radiography program and earn a state license. Once you have met these requirements, you will be able to sit for the national Certified Radiologic Technologist (CRT) exam. Although not required, becoming certified may help you advance in your career.
What are the responsibilities of an X-Ray Technician?
An X-Ray Technician’s responsibilities include:
Operating X-ray equipment
Taking X-rays of patients
Positioning patients for X-rays
Explaining the procedure to patients
Developing X-rays
Maintaining equipment
What are the educational requirements to become an X-Ray Technician?
Becoming an X-Ray Technician usually requires completing an accredited two-year degree program in radiography. Some employers may hire those with a certificate or diploma from a one-year program, but most prefer or require candidates to have an Associate’s Degree.
While attending an accredited school is not always required, it is preferred by most employers. Students can expect to take classes on topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, and medical ethics as well as X-Ray specific classes like imaging procedures and radiation safety. Clinical experience is gained by completing on the job training at a hospital or other medical facility.
What is the job outlook for X-Ray Technicians?
The job outlook for X-Ray Technicians is good. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that the number of jobs in this field will grow by 13% from 2019 to 2029.This is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. The aging baby boomer population will need more diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, as they age. New technologies, such as CT scans and MRIs, are also increasing the demand for X-ray technicians.
How can I become an X-Ray Technician?
There are two ways to become an X-Ray Technician; either through an associates degree program at a community college, or through a certificate program offered by a hospital or vocational school. Although, most employers prefer to hire those who have completed an accredited associates degree program.
The first step to becoming an x-ray technician is completing a high school diploma or equivalent. Once that has been accomplished, the interested individual must then research and enroll in an accredited x-ray tech program. There are many different types of programs available depending on the time frame that the student is willing to dedicate as well as other various factors.
After successfully completing an accredited x-ray tech program, the graduate must then pass a state administered certification exam in order to officially become licensed in their state of residence. Once licensed, the certified x-ray tech may elect to Digital radiography(DR) or computed tomography(CT).
Conclusion
The job outlook for X-ray technicians is strong, with an expected 18% growth in the field between 2018 and 2028. Students interested in becoming X-ray technicians should consider completing an accredited program in radiologic technology. Successful completion of an accredited program is required to obtain state licensure, which is needed to practice in many states.
