Are you curious about a radiology technician career? If you’ve ever had an x-ray, then you might be somewhat familiar with the work involved. Radiologic technologists, also referred to as radiographers, produce x-ray films (radiographs) of parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems.

Radiographers prepare patients [PDF] for radiologic examinations by explaining the procedure, then by using instruments similar to a measuring tape, radiographers may measure the thickness of the section to be radiographed and set controls on the x-ray machine to produce radiographs of the appropriate density, detail, and contrast. They place the x-ray film under the part of the patient’s body to be examined and make the exposure. They then remove the film and develop it.

Radiologic technologists must follow physicians’ orders precisely and conform to regulations concerning the use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and their coworkers from unnecessary exposure. To prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation, these workers surround the exposed area with radiation protection devices, such as lead shields, or limit the size of the x-ray beam. Technologists wear badges measuring radiation levels in the radiation area, and detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose.

In addition to preparing patients and operating equipment, radiologic technologists keep patient records and adjust and maintain equipment. They also may prepare work schedules, evaluate purchases of equipment, or manage a radiology department. Experienced radiographers may perform more complex imaging procedures. Radiographers may also perform flouroscopies, computer tomographies (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MR) and mammograms.

CT is becoming a priority diagnosis tool. Instead of taking x-rays to decide whether a CT is needed, it often is the first choice for imaging because of its accuracy. MR also is increasing in frequency of use. Technologists with credentialing in either of these specialties may become very marketable to employers.

In addition to radiologic technologists, others who conduct diagnostic imaging procedures include cardiovascular technologists, diagnostic medical sonographers and nuclear medicine technologists. In all cases, physical stamina is part of this occupation. You may be on your feet for long periods of time and may need to lift or turn disabled patients. You could work forty hours per week in a full-time radiologic career, but you may also be asked to work evenings, weekends or be on call. However, opportunities for part-time and shift work also are available.

Although hospitals may remain the principal employer of radiographers, a number of new jobs can be found in doctor’s offices and diagnostic imaging centers. Health facilities such as these are expected to grow through 2016, because of the shift toward outpatient care and with technological advances that permit more procedures to be performed outside the hospital.

If you study to become a radiologist, you can rest assured that many career paths are open to you. Radiologic technologists operate sophisticated equipment to help physicians, dentists, and other health practitioners diagnose and treat patients. Workers in related occupations include cardiovascular technologists and technicians, clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, diagnostic medical sonographers, nuclear medicine technologists, radiation therapists, and respiratory therapists.