Training Xray

Job prospects are extremely promising for X-ray technicians over the next five years, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, with hospitals being a primary employer, along with private practice offices and diagnostic imaging centers.

X-ray technicians, also called radiologic technologists, must complete formal training at an x-ray technician school accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology in programs varying in length from one to four years. Hospitals, colleges and universities rather than trade schools are the places most x-ray technicians get their training. Successful completion of schooling leads to a certificate, an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in radiologic technology.

The job of an x-ray technician is to produce x-ray films called radiographs which focus on specific parts of the human body in order to help other medical professionals diagnose a wide range of medical issues and problems. These can range from broken bones and collapsed lungs to brain tumors and blood clots.

The x-ray technician is responsible for preparing the patient for the x-ray and positioning the patient's body so that the radiograph will give a clear image of just what is happening physiologically. Their training allows them to be able to set the radiographic equipment to the right settings to produce a usable x-ray. Technicians are responsible for shielding the rest of the patient's body other than the subject area with the use of lead shields and other protective devices. Technicians not only take the film but also develop the x-rays.

Prospective candidates must possess a high school diploma, with a strong background in math and science courses including biology and chemistry. Coursework at x-ray technican school takes place both in the classroom as well as the clinic. Topics of study range from anatomy and radiation physics to medical terminology, patient care procedures and medical ethics.

Many x-ray technicians take additional study in such techniques as MRI and CT in order to be even more valuable to an employer upon graduation. Starting annual salaries for an x-ray technician range between $39,000 and $47,000.

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