Imaging technologies and equipment are commonly used in hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities for a variety of diagnostic and testing purposes.
Technology has made it possible for X-ray, ultrasound, and other equipment to be used to look inside the human body and spot illnesses, disorders, and other medical conditions in order to properly diagnose and come up with treatments.
As part of the healthcare process, radiology is an important aspect of helping patients and ensuring the best treatment.
Machines Need Operators
Modern as much of the equipment are, imaging machines and technologies do not operate themselves, and require the skills and professional abilities of trained operators. This is where radiology technicians come in and fulfill their work.
Radiologic technologists or radiology technicians are the personnel who operate the machinery and make sure that everything is in order so that an examination can be performed correctly, and the patient’s results are as accurate as possible.
Assisting Radiologists
Both radiologists and radiology technicians have a detailed understanding of the human anatomy, and work together to come up with the best possible solution. In most health care facilities, the radiologist orders the test or examination, while the radiology technician preps the patient and performs the test.
Part of the process is making sure that the patient is put at ease and is as comfortable as possible throughout the process, and this is part of the radiology technician’s responsibilities as well. Most imaging technologies require the patient to lie on a bed during the procedure, so the radiology technician assists the patient in assuming the right position so an accurate result can be achieved.
Some patients are naturally apprehensive about the examination, especially if it is the first time that they will be undergoing an MRI, CT scan, X-ray, or other test. The radiology technician orients the patient on the process, what needs to be done, and how safe and easy the procedure should be.
Keeping It Safe
Radiology utilizes varying levels of equipment or other tools that utilize radiation or magnetic fields. If carried out improperly, this can be potentially hazardous to the patient or even the operator. The radiology technician must make sure that all safety precautions are carried out to the letter.
Protection must begin from the technician himself, and protective suits, vests, or other protective clothing are used by radiology technicians to ensure that they are not exposed to harmful levels of radiation. The patient must also be adequately protected, usually with masks or other clothing that protects sensitive organs or tissues in the body from radiation.
Make necessary adjustments
The patient’s conditions must also be considered in the testing process. For instance, special procedures or arrangements may need to be carried out for persons with disabilities or with impaired mobilities, or those with pacemakers, intubated, catheterized, etc. Personal items that can impair or be impaired by the testing process should be handled properly.
As they work with the radiologist or other medical professionals, radiology technicians also assist in interpreting or analyzing results. They are an important factor n the efficient delivery of medical services and treatments for patients.
