X-ray technicians
take X-rays to help diagnose patients.
X-ray technicians are trained to perform radiologic exams. These exams are conducted through the use of X-ray and diagnostic imaging equipment. As an X-ray technician in the state of Michigan, you'll most likely be working in a hospital or clinic. There are 116 hospitals in the state of Michigan, according to American Hospital Directory, Inc., so there are plenty of jobs available for X-ray technicians.
Instructions
1. Take high school courses to help prepare you for your future career as an X-ray technician. These courses include advanced science and math classes, such as algebra, chemistry, biology, and physics, as well as more basic courses, such as health, nutrition, and communications.
2. Enroll in an X-Ray technician one-year program in a Michigan school. Your high school guidance counselor can help you find a community college or technical school that offers this program. You can also visit the X-ray Technician Schools website (see resources).
3. Complete your coursework in the school you choose to receive certification. The coursework will most likely include radiologic technology, diagnostic imaging research, human anatomy and physiology, physics, medical terminology, and similar courses. You'll also learn the importance of medical ethics, as well as provide optimal patient care.
4. Pass an examination to receive full certification. This exam can be taken through your school and will include information that you learned throughout the course of the program. Be prepared to answer science and math questions, as well as questions relating to positioning and protecting patients, medical ethics, operating X-ray machines, and general patient care.
5. Search for available X-ray technician jobs in Michigan once you're certified. The job skills of X-ray technicians will be in high demand at least through 2014, according to Education-Portal.com, so finding available jobs should not be too difficult. You can search for open positions on online job boards or in your local newspapers, or you can contact hospitals and clinics in Michigan directly.
Tags: X-ray technicians, available X-ray, diagnostic imaging, high school, medical ethics