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Radiologic Technology Program Curriculum

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Kerry Mohney, Coordinator/Advisor
Radiologic Technology Program
Lake Michigan College
2755 E. Napier Avenue
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
269-927-3571, or
269-927-8100, ext. 5093
E-mail: mohney@lakemichigancollege.edu
Michigan & Northern Indiana Toll Free
1-800-252-1562

NATURE OF THE WORK

Bone fractures, ulcers, blood clots, and brain tumors are just a few of the medical problems that involve the use of x-rays in their treatment, either for diagnosis or therapy. X-rays of the chest may also be taken during routine medical checkups to detect the presence of lung diseases in the early stages. The people who operate radiologic equipment and take x-ray pictures (also known as radiographs) are called radiographers or radiologic technologists.

Radiologic technologists may obtain additional certification in the following specialty areas; radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, CT, mammography, MRI, and angiography.

SPECIALTY AREA — RADIOGRAPHY

The most widely known specialty is radiography. This involves taking radiographs of parts of the human body for study by a radiologist in diagnosing a patient's problem. Before a technologist can perform any work on a patient, a physician must issue a requisition ordering the exam to be completed. Similar to prescriptions for drugs, these requisitions assure that technologists only treat people certified as needing such treatment by physicians.

Technologists prepare patients for radiologic examinations, assuring that they remove any articles of clothing, such as belt buckles or jewelry, through which x-rays cannot pass. They then position the patients, who either lie on a table or stand, so that the correct parts of the body can be radiographed, always taking care not to aggravate injuries or make the patients uncomfortable. To prevent unnecessary radiation exposure to unaffected parts, the technologist surrounds the exposed area with radiation protection devices, such as lead shields, or in some way limits the size of the x-ray beam.

After necessary preparations, the technologist positions the radiation equipment at the correct angle and height over the appropriate area of the patient's body. Using instruments similar to measuring tape, the technologist measures the thickness of the section to be radiographed. He or she sets the proper controls on the machine, such as those regulating exposure time, to produce radiographs of the correct density, detail, and contrast. The technologist then places a properly identified cassette of the correct size under the parts of the body to be examined, and makes the exposure. Afterward, the technologist removes the casette and develops it for interpretation by a radiologist. Throughout the procedure, the technologist is careful to use only as much radiation as is necessary to obtain a good diagnostic examination.

When examining a patient using fluoroscopy (watching a patient's internal body movements on a monitor or screen), the technologist prepares a solution of barium sulfate for the patient to drink or to be introduced by an enema. As the solution passes through the patient's digestive tract, a physician looks for diseases, injuries, or defects in the patient's digestive system. When fluoroscopic examinations are performed, whether on the digestive tract or on other parts of the body such as the chest, heart, or blood vessels, the technologist assists the physician by preparing and positioning the patient, adjusting the machine, applying correct exposure, and making any necessary follow-up radiographs.

Technologists certified in radiography also work with mobile (portable) units to take radiographs in surgery or when the patient is otherwise unable to come down to the radiology department.

In addition to the duties involved in operating radiologic equipment, technologists may have certain administrative tasks. Technologists prepare and maintain the patient's records — keeping track of the developed image, the date it was taken, and the radiologist's diagnosis. They may also maintain files, schedule appointments, prepare work schedules and, in general, manage radiology departments or facilities.

Good health, emotional stability, and a sincere desire to work with the sick and disabled are important qualifications for this profession.

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

For more information about a career in radiologic technology:

American Society of Radiologic Technologists
1400 Central Avenue, SE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123
www.asrt.org

Visit a nearby hospital radiology department as many times as possible to see the different areas and types of examinations performed on patients.

Talk to students currently enrolled in the program at Lake Michigan College or to former students who have graduated from the program.

Lake Michigan College is an Equal Opportunity Institution, affording enrollment, employment, and services without distinction on the basis of age, color, height, weight, creed, disability, marital status, sexual preference, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, or sex.