As more adults age and begin to seek medical treatment, the field of Xray technicians is projected to grow over the next decade.In addition to taking X-rays, an Xray technician is responsible for adjusting and maintaining the machine, as well as handling, processing, and storing the film.To become an Xray technician, you need a postsecondary education in radiography or a related field, as well as a certification exam administered in the United States by either the technician's state of residence or by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.It is possible to take the first steps towards joining this highly-rewarding field by learning what training and experience is needed.
Step 1: Understand how to operate an Xray machine.
The following skills and abilities are expected of an Xray technician after meeting the necessary educational and certification requirements.
Step 2: You can find an accredited program to attend.
A formal postsecondary education is required for anyone interested in becoming an Xray technician.An online search engine can be used by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology to find an accredited educational program.Once you find a program that works for you, you'll need to enroll in it.
Step 3: Pick a relevant area of study.
Radiography is the most common major for aspiring Xray technicians, but other areas of study may be acceptable if the major focuses on human anatomy, pathology, patient care, and radiation physics and protection.There are many areas of study for aspiring Xray technicians.
Step 4: You have to earn a degree.
The most common programs that offer an associate's degree in Radiography are ones that meet the basic requirements of most employers, but students may wish to complete a Bachelor of Science degree or even a graduate degree to gain additional experience and education.
Step 5: It is necessary to meet the ethics requirements.
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in the United States requires candidates to meet certain ethics requirements.Depending on where you live, the ethics and certification requirements will vary.There are national or regional certification boards for candidates living outside the United States.Prospective candidates are required to agree to follow the Rules and Regulations of the AART.The ethics codes can be found on the AART website.As part of the certification process, the ARRT requires candidates to reveal any and all convictions, criminal procedures, or courts-martial, as well as any previous loss of professional license, registration or certification.
Step 6: You have to pass the exam.
The education and ethics requirements must be completed by candidates before they can take the exam.There are over 200 test centers across America that the ARRT administers their computer-based exams at.The exam takes three and a half hours to complete.There is an application fee and a re-taking fee for the exam.The specific content of the exams is laid out in the certification and registration handbook.The number of questions posed in each section of the exam will be covered in the appendix.Additional information can be found on the ARRT website.Due to processing time, the results of the exam may take up to three weeks.The exam results will be mailed to the candidates.There are different requirements for state certification in the United States.Candidates unsure of their state's requirements should contact the health board.
Step 7: Continuing education requirements should be maintained.
Every year, a candidate must reiterate his commitment to the ARRT Rules and Regulations after passing the exam.He has to meet the continuing education requirements every two years.
Step 8: It is necessary to meet the continuing qualifications requirements.
The Continuing Qualifications Requirements for Xray technicians must be met every 10 years.To meet the CQR, technicians must: assemble and maintain a professional portfolio, detailing the technician's education, achievements, special skills, and professional development complete the self-assessment process.
Step 9: Seek a job as an Xray technician.
There are many professional resources for Xray technicians.The ASRT website has career listings for members.The Health careers Network website can be used by technologists who are not part of ASRT.
Step 10: Know the duties of an Xray technician.
Xray technicians are not doctors and must follow the doctor's orders.In conversation with the physician, technicians may be expected to help evaluate the images.The typical duties of an Xray technician include: adjusting, cleaning, and maintaining equipment to make sure patients don't get exposed to xray, positioning the patient and the equipment in a way that makes it hard to get an internal image.
Step 11: Do you want to work in a related occupation?
Xray technicians work with machines.Some Xray technicians who have experience working with other types of radiologic technology may specialize in related fields.