What is Radiography?
X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and other forms of radiological internal imaging comprise one of the most commonly used and essential branches of medicine. The vast majority of medical disciplines use some form of radiological imaging to diagnose patients. But did you know that not just any doctor can perform these crucial scans?
A trained radiographer is needed to operate the scanners safely. There is a great need for radiographers in today's job market. Which means that pursuing an education in radiography might be the right step toward a fulfilling career for you!
What is a radiographer, and what do they do?
Radiographers are medical technologists who specialize in the use of radiological imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs. These machines require both technical training and a thorough understanding of human physiology, which makes radiographers essential to doctors and healthcare facilities everywhere.
How does radiography differ from radiology?
Radiologists are doctors trained in interpreting the results of radiological images. In other words, radiographers take the pictures, and radiologists study them to make a diagnosis. They work in close tandem to diagnose internal medial conditions.
What Does a Radiographer Need to Know to do Their Job?
Radiographers must understand the wide variety of imaging technologies that use radiography. These include:
- X-rays
- MRIs
- CT (computed topography) scans
- Angiography (imaging of the heart and blood vessels)
- Fluoroscopy (X-ray like scans that show a moving picture instead of a still image)
Radiographers might eventually specialize in one area or work in a facility that specializes in one field of medicine. Because they work very closely with radiologists, radiographers must have a deep knowledge of the human body.
What do Radiography Technologists do in a Typical Day?
Radiographers receive orders from a radiologist on the sort of scan that a patient needs. There are both physical and mental aspects to the job. Operating the scanning equipment requires a deft touch and some stamina, as scans can take a long time to complete.
Scans often involve confining patients in small areas for long periods of time, and patients are often nervous about both the procedure and the outcome. Because of this, it helps if radiographers can help keep patients calm and soothe their worries. If a patient experiences any discomfort or panic during a scan, you need to be attuned to their issues and be ready to address their needs immediately.
Additionally, because some scanning technologies such as MRIs involve magnetism, it is essential for radiographers to keep their workspaces safe from any materials that could be affected by magnets.
What is the current market for radiographers?
There is a substantial demand for new radiologists in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the number of radiologic technologists is expected to grow 9%, faster than the average profession by 2024. The median annual salary for radiographers is $58,120.
What sort of education do I need to become a radiographer?
Radiographers can usually enter the field with an associate's degree in applied science. Further education is available, such as a bachelor's degree, but for someone getting started in the field, it's not mandatory.
Where do I start?
Curious about a career in medical radiography but unsure where to start? ECPI University offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Medical Radiography. You can begin your career path by contacting a knowledgeable admissions advisor today to see if ECPI University is right for you.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Radiography - Associate’s
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