Radiologic Technologist (Radiographer or X-Ray Technician) Essay Example

Radiologic Technologist (Radiographer or X Radiologic Technologist (Radiographer or X-Ray Technician) Paper Radiologic Technologist (Radiographer or X-Ray Technician) Paper Radiologic Technology is the science of using radiation to produce the images that radiologist use to diagnose injury and disease. Radiologic technologist or radiographer function as part of the health care team by assisting physicians, namely radiologist, in procedures, operating imaging equipment, positioning, and care of patients. . The radiographer is also responsible for patient and personal safety, as well as upkeep of equipment. To be able to perform these duties, radiographers must follow guidelines set down by various organizations and be able to perform duties in a professional, caring manner. To become radiologic technologists, students must graduate from an accredited radiologic technology program and pass the national board exam, known as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). There are both college-based and hospital-based programs. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredits these programs. Training includes radiation safety, proper positioning and procedures, patient care, as well as ethical and legal standards. With experience and additional training, staff technologists may become specialists, performing CT scanning, ultrasound, cardiovascular angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging as well as becoming an educator. Experienced technologists may also be promoted to supervisor, chief radiologic technologist, and ultimately to radiographer manager. The ARRT is responsible for testing and provides certification for these advancement positions. Radiographers work in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics and outpatient centers. The Joint Commission for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) accredits hospitals and makes sure hospitals maintain expected standards. Today, many hospitals are affiliated with Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO). All members of the health care team in these hospitals help keep costs down by promoting preventative care. They must be role models for good health to set an example for patients. The imaging department of a hospital is usually headed by the radiographer manager who works closely with radiologists and administration to establish policies and budgets. Under the manager is the chief technologist who schedules staff, maintains supplies, and sees to day to day operations. Staff radiographers must follow the chain of command to function as part of the health care team. Radiologic technologists are represented on a national level by the American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT). The ASRT helps provided educational opportunities, monitors legislation that affects the profession, and establishing standards of practice. Each state also has their own society that helps contribute to the advancement of the profession. The society established a Scope of Practice, which defines responsibilities, required qualifications and duties, allowed to perform by radiographers. A Position Description defines specific duties of the various specialty imaging areas as well as staff radiographer. Local standards prevail over national or state standards. The ASRT and the ARRT developed a Code of Ethics for technologist to provide a high standard of conduct. The principles cover prejudices, professional behavior, confidentiality, and safety responsibilities. By adhering to these principles, technologists can minimize the possibility of having a lawsuit brought against them. Another important aspect of the job is to take care of personal physical and mental well being. To be able to help others, radiographers must maintain good health and be able to cope with stresses of work and personal life. In Maslow’s hierarchy of need, self-actualization is the ultimate goal. When technologist achieve this goal they are able to cope with stresses, and have the ability to focus on patients to provide quality care.