Radiologic technicians, also known as radiologic technologists, must position patients correctly to take accurate x-ray images.
Radiology is a specialized area of medicine that uses radiation technology, specifically x-rays, to diagnose and treat diseases. In addition to doctors, there are radiologic technicians who operate the equipment used to take x-ray images and work under the direction of radiologists. Other radiology professionals include cardiovascular radiologists and radiology nurses.
Radiologist
Radiologists are trained physicians who specialize in identifying and treating diseases using x-ray and radiation technology. Using x-ray imaging, radiologists look at internal organs and compare x-ray results with those of other medical tests. Radiologists also utilize radiation, radioisotopes and other radiography to treat malignant and benign tumors and growths. Some of the areas that radiologists specialize in include cardiovascular radiology, chest radiology, gastrointestinal radiology and breast radiology. Radiologists must obtain a bachelor's degree, complete four years of medical school and intern or hold a residency prior to becoming a board certified radiologist with the American Board of Radiology. A November 2009 Salary.com report states that the average annual salary for a physician in radiology is $364,727.
Radiologic Technician/Technologist
Radiologic technicians, also known as radiographers, are responsible for taking x-ray images of patients' limbs and body parts using x-ray machines. During the examination, technicians help position patients for accurate imaging and remove jewelry and other personal items that might interfere with the radiography. Technicians ensure that patients are protected by lead shields to minimize radiation exposure and move the radiation equipment into appropriate angles and heights over the patient's body.
Radiologic technologists perform the same function as technicians. However, they also conduct imaging examinations using technologies such as tomography, mammography and magnetic resonance imaging. Technicians and technologists perform administrative duties such as equipment maintenance, recordkeeping and work scheduling. Most radiologic technicians and technologists hold an associate's degree in radiography. However, professionals can earn a bachelor's degree or certificate from a formal training program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for radiologic technologists in May 2008 was $52,210.
Radiology Nurse
Nurses specializing in radiology are registered nurses that care for patients receiving ultrasounds, chemotherapy, magnetic resonance imaging and other radiation therapy. These nurses treat patients suffering from internal and external tumors by preparing treatment plans, administering medication, checking and monitoring vital signs, assisting with patient requests and communicating patient needs to the radiologists and radiologic technologists. Radiology nurses also educate patients and their families on self-care, as well as instruct nurses and medical staff on standard nursing policies and medical procedures. As a registered nurse, radiology nurses hold a bachelor's degree and master's degree in nursing. Radiology nurses must also take the National Council Licensure Examination to become licensed. According to iHireRadiology.com, the average base salary for radiology nurses was $62,400 as of May 2010.
Tags: bachelor degree, radiologic technologists, radiology nurses, x-ray images, also known, include cardiovascular
