Career Project: Radiologic Technology

1139 Words3 Pages

The career I have chosen to pursue is radiologic technology. I have been interested in x-ray for quite some time. At first, a simple picture of a broken wrist sparked my interest. It was beautiful. The advanced technology that allows us to see the inside of the human body without exploratory surgery for a diagnosis amazed me. As I looked further into this career, I found out just how fascinating this field is. Not only are the pictures helpful in finding loose fragments and setting a bone back in place, x-ray pictures can show pneumonia, cancer, and even heart failure. According to the career assessment test for interests and skills, my high scores are the following: arts, audio-video technology, communications, and human services. According to a test in work values, what is most important to me is having a variety and a sense of achievement in my chosen field of work. To rely on these results alone, I would be an excellent radiologic technologist.

The nature of work for radiologic technologists involves many tasks. Often referred to as radiographers, they take x-rays of the human body for a diagnosis. The techs remove jewelry and explain procedures, as well as position the patient to be appropriately radiographed. Lead shields are worn to prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation, but techs are also required to follow strict regulations for the use of radiation to protect their patients and coworkers. In addition, radiologic technologists maintain equipment and patient records (Bureau of Labor Statistics). There are certain skills one should possess to be an effective technologist and these include active listening, talking to others to convey information effectively, critical thinking, reading comprehension, and c...

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Works Cited

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians. 27 Dec. 2010. 2 Apr. 2011 .

O*Net Online, Summary Report for: 29-2034.02 - Radiologic Technicians. 2010. 2 Apr. 2011 .

Marshall, G. W and S. Keene. “Radiation Safety in the Modern Radiology Department: A Growing Concern.” The Internet Journal of Radiology 5.2 2007: N. pag. 24 Apr. 2011 .

Wilson, Shelley RT(R) CNMT. Online interview. Tiffany Collins. 7 Apr. 2011

CareerOneStop, Pathways to Career Success. 2011. 28 April 2011 .

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