Radiographic Technologist Duties

A radiographic technologist controls a variety of x-ray equipment to perform diagnostic imaging examinations (3), that leads to the patients’ diagnosis, treatment, and cure (2). They may work directly with radiologists and are to provide precise pictures by setting the patient properly and adjusting equipment controls. Technologists also interact with patients by discussing the procedure, answering any questions they may have, and ensuring that patients are in a comfortable environment (1). As x-rays are understood to be ionizing radiation, it can cause damage at an atomic level (5). To protect the patients, public, team members, and oneself it is important for radiographers to use proper radiation safety techniques using the ALARA (as low

as reasonably achieved) standards and protective devices such as shields and lead aprons (1). The working conditions of radiographic technologists consist of regular office hours or sometimes on-call, and may be required to work on evenings and weekends. Additionally, the workload can be physically demanding as radiographers are constantly on their feet, handling heavy equipment, and guiding patients if assistance is needed. Likewise, it is emotionally demanding by the constant need of sensitivity with injured and unfriendly individuals. Having characteristics of patience and adaptability is extremely important because the workplace could have periods of constant stress (3).

Throughout the profession, technologists continue to further develop their skills to communicate with patients effectively by demonstrating compassion and empathy, as well as cooperating in a team environment with other members of the healthcare team in a professional manner (doctors, nurses, radiologists, etc...) (2). Being that radiographers have several responsibilities, it is essential that they maintain a high level of accuracy in their duties, constantly being aware of new technologies that are being introduced, and possessing both problem-solving and critical thinking skills (3). With additional education and training, a radiographer can specialize in many areas, for instance, MRI and CT (1). Additionally, they can go into administration and manage entire radiology departments, pursuing research by discovering new breakthroughs in technology, or teaching emerging students going into the field (2). The national professional association and certifying body for technologists are the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT)

(4).

Diagnostic medical sonographers operate ultrasound equipment and provide one-on-one care by developing and interpreting images inside the human body (2).

This information is used in conjunction with the past and relevant patient history data from physical examinations to make an analysis. Sonographers report data to physicians and educate patients by promoting a healthy lifestyle and good health. Diagnostic medical sonographers may work in hospitals or clinical settings, work on shifts that can include evenings and weekends, and required to be on call as well (1). They need to exhibit many tasks such as following established regulatory procedures, evaluating sonograms, and making accurate decisions of acquiring optimum diagnostic sonographic information in each session. Moreover, sonographers are required some physical tasks such as lifting patients, moving heavy equipment and wheelchairs (2). Sound waves that are used in ultrasound are not classified as dangerous, but there are some risks by the sonographer that may include exposure to blood-borne pathogens (2) and repeated, prolonged motions in difficult positions leading to strain injuries (1). Additionally it can be emotionally taxing as it can be stressful working with patients that have anxiety, and experiencing unpleasant odors and sights. Therefore, it is important for sonographers to be in good health, specifically regarding upper body and shoulder strength. Sonographers need to be able to pay close attention to

detail, ability to handle unpleasant situations and having good communication skills in order to work successfully with patients and the health care team (1). The minimum education requirement is a three-year diploma in sonography and must complete proper examinations such as the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) certification which is the standard practice of ultrasound (2). The association that maintains the Ultrasound profession is “Sonography Canada” and to date, there is currently no regulatory body for the profession of ultrasound (4). It is important to maintain knowledge and expertise throughout a sonographer’s career but with the additional training they can go into a subspecialty by focusing on an area of the body being examined, such as echocardiography (specialization that focuses on evaluating anatomy and blood flow within the heart) (3).