Job Duties of A Radiology Technician

What Will My Duties Be As A Radiology Tech?

As a radiology technologist (also known as a radiologic technologist or radiographer), you will play a crucial role in the healthcare team by producing diagnostic medical images to help physicians diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries. Your job duties will typically include:

Keep in mind that your specific job duties as a radiology technologist may vary depending on your work setting, level of experience, and any additional certifications or specializations you might have.

What is Involved in Radiology Technician Duties?

a various x ray imaging of a person s bones

Patient Care

Patient care is an essential aspect of a radiology technician’s (also known as a radiologic technologist) role in the healthcare team. It involves ensuring the patient’s comfort, safety, and understanding of the imaging procedures. Here are some key elements of patient care for a radiology technician:

Communication: As a radiology technician, you will need to effectively communicate with patients to explain the imaging procedure, answer their questions, and address any concerns they may have. Clear and compassionate communication helps build trust and put patients at ease.
Patient preparation: Before an imaging procedure, you will be responsible for preparing patients by giving them appropriate instructions, such as removing jewelry or other metallic objects, changing into a hospital gown, or providing information about any necessary dietary or medication restrictions.
Patient positioning: Proper patient positioning is crucial for obtaining accurate and clear images. You will need to guide and assist patients in achieving the correct position for the specific imaging study, which may involve using positioning aids, such as foam wedges or immobilization devices, to ensure patient comfort and maintain the desired position.
Assessing patient history: You may need to gather relevant patient history, including previous imaging studies, current symptoms, or existing medical conditions, to ensure the appropriate imaging protocol is followed and to provide critical information to the interpreting radiologist.
Ensuring patient safety: As a radiology technician, you must follow safety protocols and radiation protection measures to minimize radiation exposure to patients. This includes using shielding devices, such as lead aprons or collars, and adjusting exposure settings on the imaging equipment to ensure the lowest possible radiation dose is used while still obtaining diagnostic-quality images.
Monitoring patients during the procedure: During the imaging procedure, you will need to monitor the patient for any signs of discomfort, anxiety, or adverse reactions. In some cases, you may need to provide reassurance or take additional measures to ensure patient comfort, such as adjusting the room temperature or providing a blanket.
Post-procedure care: After the imaging procedure, you will need to provide patients with any necessary post-procedure instructions or care, such as explaining when they can expect to receive their results or advising them on any necessary follow-up appointments.
Empathy and compassion: A radiology technician must demonstrate empathy and compassion when interacting with patients, as many patients may be anxious, in pain, or facing a difficult diagnosis. Your ability to provide emotional support and understanding can significantly impact the patient’s overall experience and satisfaction.

By focusing on patient care, a radiology technician not only helps to obtain high-quality diagnostic images but also contributes to a positive healthcare experience for patients.

medical stethoscope placed on white background

Operating imaging equipment

Operating imaging equipment is a core responsibility of a radiology technician (also known as a radiologic technologist). As a radiology technician, you will work with various types of imaging equipment to produce diagnostic images that help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Here’s a more detailed look at this aspect of a radiology technician’s job:

X-ray

You will use X-ray machines to create two-dimensional images of the patient’s body. This involves positioning the patient, selecting appropriate technical factors such as voltage, current, and exposure time, and ensuring proper alignment of the X-ray tube and image receptor.

Computed Tomography (CT)

CT scans use a series of X-ray images taken from different angles to create cross-sectional images of the body. As a radiology technician, you will operate the CT scanner, position the patient, and select appropriate scan parameters, such as slice thickness, tube voltage, and tube current, based on the patient’s size and the area being examined.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body’s internal structures. As a radiology technician working with MRI, you will be responsible for positioning the patient within the MRI machine, selecting the appropriate imaging protocol, and monitoring the patient during the examination.

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a real-time imaging technique that uses X-rays to produce moving images of the body’s internal structures. You will operate the fluoroscopy equipment, position the patient, and work with the radiologist or other healthcare providers during procedures that require real-time imaging guidance.

Mammography

Mammography is a specialized type of X-ray imaging used to screen for and diagnose breast cancer. As a radiology technician working with mammography, you will be responsible for positioning the patient, compressing the breast tissue, and selecting appropriate imaging parameters to obtain high-quality images with minimal radiation exposure.

Ultrasound

Although ultrasound is often performed by sonographers, some radiology technicians may also work with ultrasound equipment. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the body’s internal structures. You will be responsible for applying a gel to the patient’s skin, positioning the ultrasound transducer, and adjusting the machine settings to obtain optimal images.

Digital Radiography (DR) and Computed Radiography (CR)

These are digital alternatives to traditional film-based X-ray imaging. As a radiology technician, you will be responsible for operating DR or CR systems, ensuring proper image acquisition, and processing the digital images for interpretation by the radiologist.

Operating imaging equipment is a critical aspect of a radiology technician’s job, as it directly impacts the quality of the diagnostic images and the overall patient experience. Familiarity with different imaging modalities and a strong understanding of equipment operation, patient positioning, and radiation safety protocols are essential for success in this role.

Following safety protocols

Following safety protocols is an essential responsibility for radiology technicians (also known as radiologic technologists) as they work with ionizing radiation and other potential hazards in their daily tasks. Ensuring the safety of patients, themselves, and other healthcare personnel is crucial. Here’s a more detailed look at the safety protocols radiology technicians need to follow:

Radiation protection

Radiology technicians must adhere to the principles of radiation protection, which include time, distance, and shielding. This involves minimizing the time spent in close proximity to radiation sources, increasing the distance from the radiation source, and using shielding materials like lead aprons, thyroid shields, and lead-lined walls to protect against radiation exposure.

ALARA principle

ALARA stands for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” and is a guiding principle in radiation protection. Radiology technicians should strive to minimize radiation exposure to patients, themselves, and others while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. This may involve adjusting imaging equipment settings, using appropriate shielding, and carefully planning the imaging procedure.

Proper equipment use

Radiology technicians must ensure that imaging equipment is used correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. This includes selecting appropriate imaging parameters, maintaining proper alignment of the X-ray tube and image receptor, and performing routine equipment maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Patient positioning and immobilization

Proper patient positioning and immobilization are essential for obtaining high-quality images and minimizing the need for repeat exposures, which would increase radiation exposure. Radiology technicians should use positioning aids, such as foam wedges or immobilization devices, when necessary to ensure patient comfort and maintain the desired position during the imaging procedure.

Radiation monitoring

Radiology technicians must wear personal dosimeters, such as film badges or thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), to monitor their radiation exposure. Regular monitoring and assessment of radiation exposure levels can help identify potential issues and ensure that radiation protection measures are effective.

Infection control

Radiology technicians must follow strict infection control protocols to minimize the risk of spreading infections between patients and healthcare personnel. This includes proper hand hygiene, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and masks, and sanitizing imaging equipment and patient contact surfaces between examinations.

Contrast media safety

When administering contrast media, radiology technicians must be aware of potential allergic reactions or other adverse effects. They should review the patient’s medical history, ensure proper dosing and administration, and monitor the patient for any signs of an adverse reaction.

Emergency preparedness

Radiology technicians should be familiar with emergency procedures and protocols in case of an incident, such as a patient injury, equipment malfunction, or radiation exposure event. This includes knowing how to respond to emergency situations, providing first aid if needed, and reporting any incidents to the appropriate personnel.

Continuing education

To stay current with advancements in radiologic technology and maintain knowledge of best practices for safety protocols, radiology technicians should participate in continuing education programs and maintain their professional certification.

Image quality control

Image quality control is a vital aspect of a radiology technician’s role, as it directly impacts the diagnostic accuracy and overall patient care. Here’s a more detailed look at the image quality control responsibilities of a radiology technician:

Ensuring optimal image quality

Radiology technicians must ensure that the images they produce are of sufficient quality for accurate diagnosis. This involves selecting the appropriate imaging parameters, positioning the patient correctly, and using the imaging equipment properly.

Evaluating images

After an image has been acquired, radiology technicians must evaluate it for diagnostic quality. This includes assessing factors such as image sharpness, contrast, resolution, and the presence of artifacts or other abnormalities that could impact the diagnostic accuracy. If an image is not of sufficient quality, the radiology technician may need to adjust the imaging parameters or patient positioning and acquire a new image.

Reducing artifacts

Radiology technicians should be familiar with the various types of artifacts that can occur in diagnostic images and take steps to minimize their occurrence. This may involve ensuring proper patient preparation, adjusting equipment settings, or troubleshooting equipment issues.

Radiation dose optimization

A key aspect of image quality control is balancing the need for high-quality images with minimizing radiation exposure to the patient. Radiology technicians must be knowledgeable about the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle and apply it to their work by selecting the optimal imaging parameters to achieve diagnostic-quality images while using the lowest possible radiation dose.

Digital image processing and storage

With the increasing use of digital radiography (DR) and computed radiography (CR) systems, radiology technicians must be familiar with digital image processing techniques, such as image enhancement, noise reduction, and compression. They should also be aware of the proper procedures for storing and archiving digital images to maintain image quality and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Equipment maintenance and quality assurance

Radiology technicians are responsible for performing routine maintenance on imaging equipment and participating in quality assurance programs to ensure the equipment is functioning optimally and producing high-quality images. This may involve calibrating equipment, checking for any potential issues, and performing regular quality control tests.

Collaboration with radiologists

Radiology technicians should work closely with radiologists and other healthcare professionals to ensure that the images they produce meet the necessary diagnostic criteria. This may involve discussing imaging techniques, patient positioning, and other factors that could impact image quality.

Continuing education

To stay current with advancements in imaging technology and maintain knowledge of best practices for image quality control, radiology technicians should participate in continuing education programs and maintain their professional certification.

Collaborating with Physicians

Collaboration with physicians, particularly radiologists, is an essential part of a radiology technician’s (also known as a radiologic technologist) role within the healthcare team. Effective communication and cooperation ensure that the diagnostic imaging process runs smoothly and provides accurate information for patient care. Here’s a more detailed look at collaborating with physicians as a radiology technician:

Understanding imaging requests

Radiology technicians must be able to interpret the imaging requests made by physicians, which include information on the type of study, the area of interest, and the clinical indications for the examination. Understanding these requests helps the technician to select the appropriate imaging technique and tailor the examination to the patient’s specific needs.

Patient history and clinical information

Radiology technicians may be responsible for gathering relevant patient history and clinical information to provide to the interpreting physician. This can include details about previous imaging studies, current symptoms, or existing medical conditions. Providing this context helps physicians make a more accurate and informed interpretation of the imaging study.

Customizing imaging protocols

In consultation with the interpreting physician, radiology technicians may need to adjust or customize imaging protocols based on the patient’s individual needs and clinical situation. This can involve modifying the imaging parameters, using additional imaging techniques, or adjusting patient positioning.

Clarifying instructions and concerns

If there are any uncertainties or questions about the imaging procedure, radiology technicians should not hesitate to consult with the physician to ensure they have a clear understanding of the expectations and requirements. This can help prevent misunderstandings or errors that could impact the quality of the imaging study.

Communication during procedures

During certain imaging procedures, such as fluoroscopy-guided interventions or interventional radiology, radiology technicians may need to work closely with the physician and other healthcare team members. This requires effective communication and teamwork to ensure patient safety and the success of the procedure.

Discussing image quality and findings

Radiology technicians should be prepared to discuss the quality of the images they produce with the interpreting physician. This can involve pointing out any potential artifacts or abnormalities, discussing the technical aspects of the examination, and identifying any areas that may require further imaging.

Troubleshooting and problem-solving

If issues arise during the imaging process, radiology technicians should collaborate with the physician to determine the cause of the problem and develop a solution. This may involve troubleshooting equipment issues, adjusting imaging parameters, or modifying patient positioning.

Continuous learning and improvement

Collaboration with physicians can provide valuable opportunities for radiology technicians to learn and grow in their profession. By discussing imaging techniques, best practices, and patient care, technicians can gain insights and improve their skills to better serve their patients.

maintaining patient records

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date patient records is an important responsibility for radiology technicians (also known as radiologic technologists). Proper documentation ensures that the diagnostic imaging process runs smoothly and that all relevant information is available for physicians and other healthcare providers involved in the patient’s care. Here’s a more detailed look at maintaining patient records as a radiology technician:

Patient identification: One of the first steps in maintaining patient records is ensuring accurate patient identification. Radiology technicians must verify the patient’s identity by checking their name, date of birth, and other identifying information before proceeding with the imaging examination. This helps prevent errors and ensures that the correct patient information is documented.
Gathering patient history: Radiology technicians may be responsible for obtaining relevant patient history and clinical information to include in the patient’s records. This can involve asking the patient about their symptoms, medical conditions, medications, allergies, and previous imaging studies. The information gathered should be clearly documented in the patient’s records for reference by the interpreting physician and other healthcare providers.
Documenting imaging procedures: Radiology technicians should document the details of the imaging examination, including the type of study, the imaging parameters used, any contrast media administered, and the patient’s positioning. This information is crucial for the interpreting physician to understand the context of the images and can be useful in future examinations for comparison purposes.
Recording image findings: While the interpreting physician is primarily responsible for documenting the findings of the imaging examination, radiology technicians may be asked to record any preliminary observations or abnormalities they notice during the imaging process. This can be helpful for the interpreting physician as they review the images and formulate their report.
Tracking radiation exposure: Radiology technicians must maintain records of the patient’s radiation exposure during the imaging examination, as this information is important for ensuring patient safety and managing cumulative radiation exposure. This can involve documenting the dose area product (DAP), dose length product (DLP), or other relevant exposure metrics.
Digital image management: With the increasing use of digital imaging systems, radiology technicians must be familiar with the process of managing digital images, including storing, archiving, and retrieving images as needed. This involves using picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) to organize and maintain patient imaging records.
Ensuring patient privacy: Radiology technicians must adhere to privacy regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States, when maintaining patient records. This involves ensuring that patient information is stored securely, access is limited to authorized personnel, and information is shared only when necessary for the patient’s care.
Updating records: Radiology technicians should be diligent about updating patient records as new information becomes available or changes occur in the patient’s clinical situation. This ensures that the most accurate and up-to-date information is available for healthcare providers involved in the patient’s care.

Performing routine equipment maintenance

Performing routine equipment maintenance is an essential part of a radiology technician’s (also known as a radiologic technologist) role, as it helps ensure the proper functioning and safety of the imaging equipment. Regular maintenance is crucial for obtaining high-quality images, minimizing downtime, and extending the lifespan of the equipment. Here’s a more detailed look at performing routine equipment maintenance as a radiology technician:

Visual inspection: Radiology technicians should regularly inspect the imaging equipment for any visible signs of wear, damage, or potential issues. This includes checking cables, connections, moving parts, and other components for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage that could impact the equipment’s performance.
Cleaning and sanitation: Regular cleaning of the equipment is important for maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring proper functioning. Radiology technicians should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and sanitizing the equipment, which may involve wiping down surfaces, using approved cleaning solutions, and cleaning any removable components.
Calibration and adjustments: Radiology technicians may be responsible for calibrating the imaging equipment to ensure that it is functioning optimally and producing accurate, high-quality images. This can involve adjusting settings, fine-tuning imaging parameters, and performing test exposures to ensure the equipment is performing within the acceptable limits.
Quality assurance testing: Regular quality assurance (QA) testing is an important aspect of equipment maintenance. Radiology technicians should perform routine QA tests to evaluate the performance of the imaging equipment and identify any potential issues. This can include measuring image quality, assessing radiation output, and checking the accuracy of the equipment’s settings.
Preventative maintenance: Radiology technicians should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for preventative maintenance, which may involve tasks such as replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, or checking the alignment of the X-ray tube and image receptor. Preventative maintenance helps to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems, minimizing downtime and reducing the risk of equipment failure.
Troubleshooting and repairs: If equipment issues arise, radiology technicians should be familiar with basic troubleshooting techniques to identify the cause of the problem and determine the appropriate solution. In some cases, technicians may be able to perform minor repairs or adjustments themselves, while more complex issues may require the assistance of a specialized service technician.
Documentation and record-keeping: Radiology technicians should maintain accurate records of all equipment maintenance activities, including dates, tasks performed, and any issues identified or resolved. This documentation can be useful for tracking the equipment’s performance over time, planning future maintenance activities, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Continuing education and training: Staying current with advancements in imaging technology and maintenance best practices is important for radiology technicians. Participating in continuing education programs and training can help technicians stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and tools for maintaining and troubleshooting imaging equipment.

By performing routine equipment maintenance, radiology technicians play a critical role in ensuring the proper functioning, safety, and reliability of the imaging equipment. Regular maintenance helps to minimize equipment downtime, maintain high image quality, and extend the lifespan of the equipment, ultimately contributing to better patient care and outcomes.

Continuing education and professional development

Continuing education and professional development are essential components of a radiology technician’s (also known as a radiologic technologist) career, as they help to maintain and enhance their knowledge, skills, and competency in the rapidly evolving field of diagnostic imaging. Engaging in continuous learning ensures that radiology technicians stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology and best practices in patient care. Here’s a more detailed look at continuing education and professional development as a radiology technician:

Maintaining certification and licensure

Radiology technicians are required to maintain their professional certification and licensure by participating in continuing education programs. This typically involves completing a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) or hours within a specified time frame. These requirements can vary depending on the technician’s specific area of practice, location, and certification or licensing body.

Staying current with industry advancements

Radiology is a rapidly evolving field, with constant advancements in imaging technology, techniques, and patient care practices. Continuing education and professional development help radiology technicians stay informed about the latest developments, ensuring that they can provide the most advanced and effective care to their patients.

Enhancing skills and knowledge

Participating in continuing education programs allows radiology technicians to deepen their understanding of their field and develop new skills. This can involve learning about new imaging modalities, refining their patient positioning techniques, or exploring advanced topics in radiation safety and image quality control.

Expanding professional opportunities

Pursuing continuing education and professional development can open doors to new career opportunities for radiology technicians. By gaining expertise in specialized areas of radiologic technology, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or interventional radiology, technicians can increase their value to employers and potentially advance their careers.

Networking and collaboration

Continuing education events, such as conferences, workshops, and seminars, provide valuable opportunities for radiology technicians to connect with their peers and experts in their field. Networking can help technicians share knowledge, learn from others’ experiences, and build professional relationships that can support their career growth.

Meeting regulatory and accreditation requirements

Radiology departments and imaging centers may be subject to regulatory requirements and accreditation standards that require their staff to engage in ongoing professional development. By participating in continuing education, radiology technicians can help their workplace maintain compliance with these requirements and demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

Fostering a culture of learning and excellence

By embracing continuing education and professional development, radiology technicians contribute to a culture of learning and excellence within their workplace. This can help improve the overall quality of care provided by the imaging team and lead to better patient outcomes.

Continuing education and professional development are integral aspects of a radiology technician’s career, helping them stay current with industry advancements, enhance their skills and knowledge, and expand their professional opportunities. By engaging in ongoing learning, radiology technicians can ensure they provide the highest quality care to their patients and contribute to the success of their imaging team.

Assisting with specialized procedures

Radiology technicians (also known as radiologic technologists) may have the opportunity to assist with specialized imaging procedures, which involve working closely with physicians, such as radiologists or other specialists, and other healthcare professionals. Assisting with these procedures can be an important aspect of a radiology technician’s role, as it expands their skillset and contributes to efficient patient care. Here’s a more detailed look at assisting with specialized procedures as a radiology technician:

Interventional radiology

Interventional radiology involves using imaging guidance to perform minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty, stent placement, or biopsies. Radiology technicians may assist by preparing the procedure room, positioning the patient, operating the imaging equipment during the procedure, and monitoring the patient’s vital signs.

Fluoroscopy-guided procedures

Fluoroscopy is a real-time imaging technique that provides continuous X-ray images on a monitor. Radiology technicians may assist with fluoroscopy-guided procedures, such as barium studies, joint injections, or lumbar punctures, by positioning the patient, operating the fluoroscopy equipment, and ensuring proper radiation safety measures are followed.

Computed tomography (CT)-guided procedures

Radiology technicians should be familiar with the various types of artifacts that can occur in diagnostic images and take steps to CT-guided procedures involve using computed tomography scans to precisely guide the placement of instruments, such as needles or catheters, within the body. Radiology technicians may assist by preparing the patient, positioning them within the CT scanner, operating the scanner, and monitoring the patient during the procedure. their occurrence. This may involve ensuring proper patient preparation, adjusting equipment settings, or troubleshooting equipment issues.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided procedures

MRI-guided procedures, such as biopsies or ablations, utilize magnetic resonance imaging to guide the placement of instruments within the body. Radiology technicians may assist by preparing the patient, positioning them within the MRI scanner, operating the scanner, and monitoring the patient during the procedure.

Ultrasound-guided procedures

Ultrasound-guided procedures, such as biopsies, drainages, or vascular access, use ultrasound imaging to visualize the target area and guide the placement of instruments. Radiology technicians, particularly those with specialized training in sonography, may assist by operating the ultrasound equipment, obtaining the necessary images, and helping the physician perform the procedure.

Nuclear medicine procedures

Nuclear medicine involves the use of small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose or treat various conditions. Radiology technicians with specialized training in nuclear medicine may assist with procedures, such as preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals, operating gamma cameras, or performing PET/CT scans.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is used to treat cancer and other conditions by delivering targeted radiation doses to specific areas of the body. Radiology technicians who specialize in radiation therapy may assist by helping to plan treatment, positioning the patient, and operating the radiation therapy equipment during treatment sessions.

Assisting with specialized procedures can be a valuable aspect of a radiology technician’s role, as it allows them to develop new skills, work closely with other healthcare professionals, and contribute to efficient patient care. To assist with these procedures, radiology technicians may require additional training and certification in the specific imaging modality or technique involved.

Adhering to infection control protocols

Adhering to infection control protocols is a critical aspect of a radiology technician’s (also known as a radiologic technologist) role, as it helps prevent the spread of infections and ensures the safety and well-being of both patients and healthcare professionals. Radiology technicians must follow established guidelines and best practices for infection control in their workplace. Here’s a more detailed look at adhering to infection control protocols as a radiology technician:

Hand hygiene: Proper hand hygiene is the cornerstone of infection control. Radiology technicians should wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Hand hygiene should be performed before and after patient contact, after removing gloves, and after touching any potentially contaminated surfaces or items.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Radiology technicians must wear appropriate PPE when handling potentially infectious materials or working with patients who may have communicable diseases. PPE can include gloves, gowns, masks, face shields, and eye protection. It is crucial to follow proper procedures for donning and doffing PPE to minimize the risk of contamination.
Environmental cleaning and disinfection: Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and equipment are essential for preventing the spread of infection in the radiology department. Radiology technicians should follow established protocols for cleaning and disinfecting imaging equipment, patient care items, and surfaces in the examination room, using appropriate disinfectant solutions and techniques.
Proper handling and disposal of waste: Radiology technicians must follow proper procedures for handling and disposing of potentially infectious waste, such as used gloves, gowns, or sharps. This includes using designated waste containers, following proper disposal procedures, and adhering to any applicable regulations for the handling and disposal of medical waste.
Aseptic technique: When assisting with invasive procedures, such as biopsies or injections, radiology technicians should use aseptic technique to minimize the risk of introducing infection. This involves maintaining a sterile field, using sterile gloves and instruments, and taking care to avoid contaminating any sterile items or surfaces.
Patient education and communication: Radiology technicians play an important role in educating patients about infection control measures and ensuring that patients understand and follow any necessary precautions. This can involve instructing patients on proper hand hygiene, explaining the rationale for wearing PPE, or discussing any specific infection control measures that may be required for a particular imaging examination.
Immunizations and health monitoring: Radiology technicians should stay up-to-date with their immunizations, such as the annual flu vaccine or the hepatitis B vaccine, to protect themselves and their patients from infectious diseases. They may also need to participate in ongoing health monitoring or surveillance programs, such as tuberculosis screening, to ensure that they are not carrying any communicable diseases.
Reporting and responding to infection control concerns: Radiology technicians should be vigilant for any signs of potential infection control breaches or outbreaks and should report any concerns to their supervisor or infection control team. They may also need to participate in infection control investigations or initiatives to help identify and address the sources of infection and prevent future occurrences.

Adhering to infection control protocols is a crucial aspect of a radiology technician’s role, helping to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, colleagues, and themselves. By following established guidelines and best practices, radiology technicians can minimize the risk of infection and contribute to a safe and healthy healthcare environment.

photo of woman sitting on a ct scan machine