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Searching for a school in your area? Look no further!. It's easy to find accredited programs!. Go to arrt.org (a new browser window should open).
Next, on the left menu bar, click 'Education' Then click on 'List of Educational Pgms.' Pick the program type you''re interested in, hit 'Select', and you'll have in front of you one of the most complete and reliable lists of all of the programs in the US!.
If you feel like surfing for information on medical imaging professions, try the American Society of Radiologic Technologists'' website - asrt.org - their site has a video on each profession, Scope of Practice documents, professional development tools, and the results of some very interesting RT surveys (including the 2001 Wage & Salary Survey). Also, go to JRCERT SDMS CAAHEP Quite useful!. Hope these are helpful!

I heard about being a rad tech...it sounded really cool, so i am trying to figure out all the classes i need to take and what degrees and certificates and schools and just everything that you know, i''m pretty much blind on the whole situation and i want to know everything!! please help! I remember when I first heard about being a rad tech also, and had so many questions! First, read as much as you can about it. This sote is a good place to start, but also check the arrt.org website for more details and a list of the accredited schools near you, and those schools should have the prerequisites on their website. Here is also a very good link to give an overall description of duties, working conditions, schooling and salaries. BLS You will love the technology, the energy and the creativity that comes with this field. It generally takes two years of academic preparation for either an AS or certificate; however there are some 4 year (BS) programs. After you complete your coursework at a JRCERT accredited program, you will be able to take your registery exam through ARRT. There are many forums for training for the other modalities, I have seen ads in Radiology Today and other trade publications for self-study courses. Some community colleges have training programs in MRI and CT. For UltraSound and Nuc. Med. there are also separate academic training programs that do not necessarily require that you have completed general radiology training. You can go to CAAHEP.org for a list of accredited Ultrasound programs and JRCNMT for a list of Nuc Med programs. I wish you the best on your project! With regulation requiring RT's to be licensed, combined with seemingly endless job security, AND combined with the fact that technology is making the job easier, this seems to be a great time to get into the field.. we're going to make a lot of people healthier, and we'll be happier in the long run. Good luck! The standard classes in algebra, english, and science that high schools require for graduation are sufficient to prepare you for entrance into most rad tech programs. Biology and algebra are neccessary, but you have probably already taken these classes in school. Good grades are always a plus, as the competition for acceptance into rad tech school can be tough. The rad tech admissions committee that selects students for entrance into their program may look for participation in outside activities that demonstrates your desire to get into healthcare. So, now is the time to find out if your high school has some kind of medical careers club, or other extracurricular activity that relates to the medical field. Perhaps you can become a junior volunteer at your local hospital, which will also demonstrate your interest in healthcare. You might be able to get a part time job in a hospital radiology department as a patient escort or file clerk. I have worked with several high school students who did just this as they worked toward their higher education. For a list of accredited rad tech schools in your area, go to www.jrcert.org. Click on the "downloads" icon. Here you will find a list of schools with their locations, contact numbers and other important info. Contact a school near you, and find out what kind of pre-requisite courses (if any) are required. Take tours of the schools that interest you, and ask as many questions as you can think of. It''s not too early for you to be doing this. The more you know now, the easier your decision will be when the time comes.

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Is it getting harder to get into a Rad Tech program? I'm sure there will be Rad Tech programs being developed due to the advertised shortage. There is a new program in the Houston area that recently opened and I saw in one of the trade mags. (I think it was Radiology Today) a question from someone conducting research for a school that was interested in developing a program in Georgia. I think the difference with Rad Tech is that there are rigid guidelines for the programs unlike IT programs that sprung up all over the place and had relatively no entry requirments i.e you could just go to a school and declare IT as a major. I am actually glad that there is competition with entry into Rad Tech programs. Not to sound cold-hearted but competition is a way of American life. Take a moment and think of the little boys that play pop warner football that have hopes of playing in the NFL very few make it! Think about the pre-med student that never gets into Medical school or the professional dancer that doesn''t make the Laker Girl's squad. That's competition and that's life.

How is XRAY week celebrated in the USA? many hospitals celebrate the whole week as Xray Week. The sales reps and radiologists take turns treating the department to lunch or breakfast. Displays are put in the lobbies for xray week. Departments sponsor various contests for the staff, with the winners getting small prizes. A typical contest involves posting baby pics of the staff, and whoever identifies the most pictures is deemed the winner. One contest involves a CT scan of various kinds of candies, and whoever could identify them all was the winner. Other places have drawings for the give-aways that the vendors supplied (Mugs, tshirts, and the like.) Not every place celebrates Xray Week, but it is a nice way to recognize the staff for all their hard work throughout the year.

How will I get to know if I'm accepted for a Rad Tech school? Whether a message of acceptance or one of rejection, most schools don't want to say so in a telephone call or voice-mail message. There could be a lot of info they need to send you, forms to sign, etc., even if you have been accepted, or they might have a formal letter of explanation if you have been turned down for some reason. I know it''s hard to be "put off", but maybe it won''t take long for you to get your answer.

Looking for CD roms or DVDs in rad tech physics? , "Selman's" or "Bushong's" (or a number of other text of Radiography techniques last authored or updated by Thompson. Most classes are being taught out of Bushong''s Radiologic science for the tech. This book has a lot of mistakes and misleading information.Bushong''s book is confusing too . I recommend using the Carlton/Adler and Fauber books as references when you come across something that you just aren''t grasping. Carlton/Adler has good visual diagrams of the interactions, transformers and circuitry. Fauber is good for refreshing on the basics. If you have any specific questions, you can ask me and I''ll try to help since I''m doing pretty well in this subject so far. The "Bushong's book and work book do not correlate too well. Many find "Principles of Radiographic Imaging" (Carlton/Adler) to be much better. It is much more easier to read and understand than Boushong's. Although I like the graphics in Bushong, Carlton is much easier reading Selmans is awful, Carltons is a good in between. Its really not that hard, just don't over think it and take it one concept at a time. Principles of Radiologic Imaging by Carlton & Adler is not that bad a book; the reading can be somewhat dry at times, but it very clear. The diagrams are quite good, as are some of the information charts/tables. So, for the four days before your first science/physics test, spend about three hours a day reading that textbook, jotting-down notes to yourself along the way. Going over the same material, over and over again every day . If your teacher gave you an outline of topics for each test, comb through your textbook; class notes - and type-up the most comprehensive study guide you can make. The act of typing it out once is big all by itself. That, and ask your teacher tons of questions. I don't recall Cahoon going into much physics, except as introductory or explanatory material relative to "principles of radiographic exposure" info, "Cahoons"..is considered by some to be the bible of Radiographic physics. I used Cahoon's for many years as an instructor. Fauber's "Radiographic Imaging and Exposure" is a lot better. The writing seems to be more straight forward and it is easier to understand and grasp the concepts. It touchs on x-ray production and physics but doesn't seem to go into too much detail though. Cahoon's, most professionals used to think it was the greatest. most students typically hate it - physics is just one of those classes you remember then forget real quick. Christensen''s Physics of Diagnostic Radiology(Curry et al) is a pretty old textbook (last edition was published in 1990) but content-wise it''s quite alright.

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How many different clinical sites are included in a Rad Tech program? You would be very lucky to be getting experience in three different clinical sites. In a typical two year program, you could stay at the same hospital for the entire time, with the exception of ONE measly week at another site in the second year. It would be a major disadvantage for you not to have seen more equipment and different routines. It will hurt you when you start your first job in a hospital. So, if you experience different hospitals and clinical sites, think of it as a blessing. And remember, the more folks you meet now, the easier it may be later to find a job. It''s alllllll good. Some prpgrams count it a blessing that they have more than sites (though it''s a lot to get used to) because the students get to see many different settings (diagnostic centers, urgent care centers, hospitals, doctor's offices, etc) so that they will know which place they like the best when they get out of school! The more clinical sites you have to rotate through the better. You get exposed to more equipment, exams, situations, plus students are more spread out and you aren't fighting to get a check off with everyone else in your class! What subjects so I need to get into a Rad Tech school? All schools vary in requirements but it seem that Anatomy and physiology, chemistry, college alegebra, and physics are required by all school if not it is integrated into the program. It seem like a smart thing to start off there and take at least the minimal to get in. Because most schools requires a wait, you can take the general eduction class while you wait after you've got your name on the list.

What's a typical day at Rad Tech School? school is okay. You could kinda get burned out from going for a year and a half straight with no breaks in between. You will need to do good at both the hospital and also in your classwork. For example one day you could have a postioning test on upper GI, esophagram, small bowel, barium enema and the next day you could be having a pt care test. Before you know it, you will be taking the ARRT test. Time sure goes by fast. Most schools do all the didactic first. Look on the bright side you''ll get to spend your whole second year shooting x-rays. The typical program is a 3yr program competed in 24 months consecutively. No breaks. This will include a clinical placement, and you will absolutely love it. Although it can get a little difficult because you are rotated between an average of 3 different hospital sites, so you have to adapt to different equipment, techniques and personalities at each of the different hospitals.You may have rather bad days. The best advice I can give you is to keep up with your studying. Never get behind. Give yourself at least 3 days to review for a test (if they even give you that much notice.. lol). Go to school every day and pay attention. Thats how yo uget the highest grades in your class, and these are the rules that you should always follow! It may sound simple, but some people just don''t do it! study EVERY night, and do it religiously. If you fall behind, it is a nightmare to try and catch up. Re-copying your class notes every night is a big help as well. I found it helpful to draw pictures into my notes to help with anatomy and positioning. The repetition helped me retain more info, plus my notes were the envy of the entire class. Two more words you need to know if you have kids...BABYSITTING CO-OP. you will need some time to yourself to study or de-compress or just chill out. Form a co-op with your sister-in-law (or anyone else you know with children.) For every hour you watch their kids, they will watch yours at another time. I did this with someone when I was in xray school and it worked out great. If things get confusing for you, (and they WILL) don''t be afraid to ask your clinical instructor, or even techs at your clinical site. Things might get passed over in the classroom, but your clinical training serves to reinforce and fill in the blanks. The hospital is where you learn your method of operations. There are lots of people there who can help you with the fuzzy stuff if you come across anything else that isn''t clear. Don't be shy!

What mistakes should you avoid at rad tech school? We have all been in your shoes. I have seen techs and students alike make the same mistakes, along with leaving necklaces and dentures on for sinuses, bras on for chest xrays, etc. I have seen students fog entire film bins because they were not paying attention in the darkroom. I, myself, almost didn't make it out of xray school because I was having a terrible time passing my sternum comp. (You know how often THOSE come in...almost never where I was doing clinicals). You could be doing a C-spine routine (AP, Flex/Ext, Obliques, odontiod) and forget to ask the patient to remove her earings! And to make it worse, once you've completed all the images and then checked the film and noticed your error you would have to repeat all of them except for the AP. You will feel really horrible about it, but your fellow techs may make you feel a little better. This is all a learning experience and that once you have made this mistake, you will be less likely to ever make the same mistake again.

What's the typical take in a Rad Tech school? In a typical school, over 1000 inquire, 400-500 send back applications, 120 something take the test. Of those, they interview 50 and accept 12 with two alternates. Originally only about 12-16 are accepted (lucky me!) and then they typically let in 8 alternates in because they are sometimes able to hire more staff to accommodate extra students. Admittedly for selfish reasons, you should like this market.. it''s an employees' market to some extent. But in reality, we''ll need more RTs in the future to accomodate expanding healthcare demand. There will have to be a balance somewhere There is a shortage on educators also so that can also hinder the opening of new schools. Apply to a rad tech college and you will probably recieve big package from the college full of info and it usually states that the program is first come first serve. Good luck to anyone wanting to get into a program! It can be a tough process but it is definitely worth it. You will love every minute and start clinicals after only 3 weeks of class , initially you will probably be both nervous and excited.

What are the pre-reqs to a rad tech (Radiography) program? While most schools have specific pre-reqs, there are usually some that almost all programs require. These would be Anatomy and Physiology (some schools require 2 semesters), College Algebra, and possibly Intro to Psych. If it is a program that leads to an Associates degree, then you will probably have to take English, Public Speaking, Intro to Computers, some type of humanities and maybe some other "fluff" courses. You really need to contact the schools you are interested in applying to to really nail down which classes are required. Good luck and do well in your pre-reqs, often admission decisions come down to your GPA in those classes. They probably won't accept radiation physics as the physics or physical science requirement. I can't emphasize enough that people interested in the field need to learn proper spelling and grammar. You need to be able to present yourself well to suceed in a healthcare organization. And if you can''t get a better grasp of these things, then at least have someone who does proofread what you write. I think the prerequistes is the hardest part and if you can stay awake for anatomy and physiology, and chemistry then you''ll be okay. Just study hard and you will shine

I have not attented college nor taken any SAT''s, ACT''s....I''d like to get into the field of radiology however most schools require SAT scores and community college requires me to take a placement test and an allied health test. I feel like I''m at a dead end and that I won''t be given a chance. Has anyone had a similar situation, please help! I would get a Pre-ACT or Pre-SAT book to study with. That will give you an idea of what level you are at. Even if you DON''T score well, the worst case will be having to add a few extra classes prior to taking required courses. Just get a good nights rest prior to the test :) Both the SAT and ACT take one''s level of education and age (i.e., years since graduating HS, etc.) into consideration when assessing scores. But even if they don't, I''m sure you''ve picked up knowledge since HS, even if you''ve also forgotten much of what you learned there. What you could do at the community college is a CPT (computer placement test) Test. The only difficulty may be the math aspect of it, since you probably haven't had any kind of math since 10th grad in high school. Look at an Intermediate Algebra or a College Algebra book). Believe me, you've been out there enough that your life experiences will help you more than you realize in your testing. You might suprise yourself. Think about it this way, most of what high school does is prepare you for the real world, right? And you''ve been in the real world for years now. The older students seem to do better in school. They try harder, and seem to be better motivated. They know how it really is in the world out there on their own. More than half of the students in the colleges are older students. This test is structured similiar to the TASP test. You can study for the entrance test at JPS in Fort Worth last year, and you can also do so at the Hendrick Med Center in Abiline. A link to sample teste is: TASP In mem.Hermann program in houston there is a test the school gives to get into their program. It has math on it, they say it is like the TASP test. Technically you don't have to have college to apply for this program. You could be right out of high school and if this is something you want to do...you can apply for acceptance. There is a pre entrance exam that you will be invited to take (after your transcripts have been looked over-whether they are high school transcripts or college transcripts). As far as the pre entrance exam goes....since college is not a pre req...it stands to reason that they won't be testing you at a high level. I think that the pre entrance exam is basically just to see if you are a somewhat literate, thinking, comprehending individual. It was recommended to me to get a copy of the SAT study guide from the library..if I wanted to brush up on things. But..the exam was wide ranging...there were diff. sections that covered math, science, spelling, reading comprehension..and one other area that I can''t recall. There is no way you can study for such a test...you have no idea what questions will be asked. But..the SAT study guide will help you in "how" to test well. There is a method to doing a test like that and a way to maximize your score...if you know how to take the test. So..basically what I am saying is....I wouldn't worry about your educational background or your age for that matter... If it is what you want to do...then just go for it.

What are the best Rad tech schools ? Is there a waiting list for my Rad Tech college ? Gateway does in fact have a waiting list of about two years. That''s just for the radiography program. I believe back in April we were told that the other programs (Nuc. Med and US) also had waiting lists but not so long. You might want to check that out for yourself, though. The staff at Gateway are very helpful as far as answering email questions. Gateway has a beautiful new Health Sciences building with all kinds of state-of-the-art equipment. They do have a very good reputation and are known for working with local businesses (hospitals, in the case of the rad program) as far as coming up with the curriculum. I've heard a lot of great things about Gateway. Some people on the waiting list would either change their mind or found another program so you could get bumped up. When I was checking out Gateway and trying to do prereqs, the waiting list boiled over two years. And all of the other areas aren't any better. Nuc Mec was around 150 people, and they take about 25 every 16 months. So I would say that the program waiting list is at least a year and a half if not 3. Call Gateway and speak to a program advisor. There are typically about 30-40 applicants on the waiting list and 24 are accepted every 16 months. Sounds like a 3 year waiting list for most. Gateway's ultrasound program is possibly turning into a Bachelor's degree program .The next class to graduate is the pilot program. The school is considering this since anyone who gets into the ultasound program already has a 2 year degree. The rumour is the Nuc Med program might be soon to follow as well as the radiography program since both require a little more than a year of pre reqs to get in. A national committee is conducting a study to decide if all rad tech programs should be incresed to a bachelors degree. The decision will be made sometime next year, so it won''t affect anyone currently in a program. Gateway is contemplating turning a lot of their programs to bachelors to get techs and others more clout. I also heard that Gateway might start up a radiation therapy program but no word when. The following link should give you all the info on such things as whether rad physics will suffice. Jeanna Dial is one of program directors and she is great. I would put your name down for program irregardless of waiting list - you never know. Gateway is great school by the way and all their health related programs are well respected in the Valley. GWC. The waits are for community college are ridiculous. You should go to Apollo or any other Tech school like Pima. I called Pima and they had a year and a half wait, which is still pretty long. But Apollo takes I think 25 students 3 times a year. Basically it depends on if you want to pay more to start faster or pay less and wait a long time. In some new programs I heard the waiting list is between 5 and 8 years. There were no pre-req's required. You just had to wait for your name to come up on the list. Being a new program, they are experimenting and changing it daily. Pre-req''s will now be required. They still have 15 of the 20 that started in the first class. But, they have closed down a couple of hospital rad programs. Guess they thought they would integrate. We'll see if this is a better turn out. In Florida . every year you need to apply if you haven't been accepted for that school year. Usually what they do in Florida is go through all the applications and all of those who have finished their prerequisites at the time of application will be the group that will get the first chance of getting in. If there are more than the required number of spots, a drawing will be done. At this point those that have not fulfilled their prereqs will have to wait until the following year. Texas based programs have no waiting lists. Every year in texas you must reapply, and the draw starts again and the interviews are redone and new fees are collected for applications. I'd like to know if anyone knows of Texas based programs that have "waiting lists". The one's we have checked out do not have this. The ones that require reapplication here in Texas are: TCC, JPS, Hendrick, Witchita State, ElCentro, RCC, McClennan Comm Coll, and Austin Comm Coll, and Baylor Med Center in Dallas. Memorial hermann hospital in Houston give a test called the TABE. The TABE has general subjects like reading, math, spelling and reading comprehension. As for the math it had percentages and algebra. It is not that bad. Chatt State is an Associate program but the good thing about Chatt State is that they have rad therapy, nuc med, MRI, CT, mammo, and u/s programs that you can complete after you get your RT. So the flexibility is a good thing, but the stress of waiting for that all important letter from Chatt State is not. You can chack out CTB, the creator of TABE, for some information CTBIt's basically there to test your level of knowledge on base topics (Math, Reading, English etc). Harbor UCLA have a great nuclear medicine program but it is so competitive. They accept only 7 students a year out of hundreds of applicants. The Nuclear med. program.is great, especially at Harbor/UCLA. The Harbor/UCLA OR is also great. Prince George''s community college in Maryland offers a 13 month program in nuclear medicine. You might want to check that out :idea . The OR was one of the rotations (portables-horribles)that some try to get out of.(vacation,sicktime) but the OR is actually great. Austin Community College has no waiting list, per se, but there is a re-application bonus. If the person had applied the previous year, a bonus is awarded to his/her admission scoring. From what I hear, the bonus is significant enough such that one has a really good chance by the 2nd or 3rd year. Here''s the program''s website: Austin Community College Rad Tech Program On there, there's a document giving the exact formula on how each applicant is scored. There are also documents on the program costs and the probable class schedules for each semester. Hospital based programs in Illinois. are no problem in getting in. In fact,you can get accepted into a college based program at the same time ( just opt to go with the hospital). There are no waitlists holding people back from starting when they want to start. I think that maybe alot more interest in the field is contributing to the programs being in demand...but in Illinois it seems that you can find a program somewhere that has room. Typically a college based program will probably accept 28-30 students..where a hospital based program will accept 16-18..and that is considered a large class for a hospital program. it is surpprising to hear of different states that seem to have waitlists for 2-3 years. If you choose Illinois you should feel fortunate that you will have a choice of a couple of different schools where others are having trouble finding a program. The waiting list process begins after a candidate completes the specific prequiste courses ( each college may require different courses than other colleges), completes an application, submit officials transcripts, and submit all other documents or test scores required by the college. Most college will place a candidate name on a waiting list according to the post marked date of the recieved application package. The candidate will be notified, usually by mail, candidate's number on the list and the status on the length of the wait time. As long as a candidate fulfills all requirements, the candidate is guaranteed a spot when her number comes up. For instance if a candidate is the 25th person on the waiting list and the college only takes 24 students, she will definetly get in the following class. There are a lot of nursing, dental hygeine, and RT programs that goes by a waiting list. The wait depends on the college you apply for. Colleges like Gateway in AZ have somewhere between 100-150 students on the waiting list. a candidate should apply for every college around to increase her chances or even relocate if possible to get into a program, I think it''s worth it. The faster a candidate finishes the sooner a candidate will start making some money especially now since there is a nationwide shotage of RTs. Just remember that there is no standard method of accepting students so check and recheck with every college a candidate applies for. In most community colleges, there is no waiting list. You are either accepted within the class of 30 students with a few alternate spots or you are not and will have to re-apply the following year. Pretty much the only way that you have a shot of getting into the program is if you have ALL of your prereqs done. If more than 30 have all classes done, then it depends on your GPA

How do I enter an ultrasound program? Bowling Green Tech has an ultrasound program as well, but you have to go through radiography school before you can enter the u/s program. The tuition for the u/s program is the same as the tuition for any other program, its $64 a credit hour I believe. Their website is Bowling Green Tech A radiography program enables you to learn different modalities later on, not stuck in just one area. Most places are willing to teach you other modalities, even sonography (after you''ve been at a place some years), without further schooling. It looks as if you will never get bored in this field. Also, if you do choose to further my career, from what I've researched, other areas (like Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy, MRI, and Sonography) may only take me a year to complete. Many of these colleges offer current radiographers advanced standing in thier classes if you are registered. For me it was the better choice. How many usually apply for the 10 open sonography spots, compared to how many apply for the 25-30 radiography spots? Good luck with your choice! Both fields are very exciting. Angelina College in Lufkin, Tx offers both Radiography and sonography courses angelina . I also think that Tyler JR College offers both

Are there a lot of openings for Rad Tech's in Arizona? As far as job availability - there are lots of jobs for techs! Look on monster.com for job postings in the Phoenix area and also look at the individual hospital sites for job listings. If you go : here then you can find a list of Arizona area hospitals. Go to their sites and check out their job openings. There always seem to be some kind of imaging openings. I heard from the director of the RT program that most students are hired by the time they graduate. He said the worst case scenario he ever experienced, when there wasn''t such a shortage of techs, was, I think, a 4 month wait. But, that was a while ago. Good luck ! You will definitely want to call the school directly to ask them about the nuc med program. I know their waiting list is formidable, but the program director will give you particulars. I think you''ll find that once you start work, there will be opportunities for you -- your employer will support additional training, and you may find doors opening to you that you can''t imagine just yet, since it''s all hypothetical. The hospitals you visit will seem enthusiastic about staff who express an interest and talent in certain areas/modalities. As far as jobs, the prospect is very good. Arizona has consistently ranked among the top areas of growth for years. And with the growth comes the need for health care! azcentral is also another source to check job prospects. Once you're close enough to graduation, I would start putting your feelers out soon and start networking. Arizona is great .

Can I work while at school? You may try to work as a Tech while at school, that's if you get accepted. There is often the possibility of working as a student tech while still in school. Typically out of an average 17 in a class , of those at least 9 of them already have jobs. It could be a wise move on your part , however some may regret jumping in too fast. You would be very lucky if you're in a state that allows students to work as techs. Techs that went to school in N Dakota and Wiscosin take advantage of it. It is only offered in your last year or last semester/ The pay is good, you learn more than you would at intern, and that hospitals would be more likely to offer you a position. As long as it doesn''t interfere with your studies, I don't see why you shouldn''t go for it. Extra money and experience, I wish all students could do that. Oklahoma will hire you even though you are still in school. The pay is less, of course, until you''re registered, but decent pay still. Alabama students been working as a student tech since the first semester. In PA, some classmates get jobs as student techs while in the program. They had to take the state's limited scope exam, (which anyone could take, even right off the street) and they could do any exams for which they had already passed a comp. They were not permitted to go to the OR or do portables alone, but they could do whatever their skills would allow, as long as there was a tech within earshot. There were few spots available in this capacity, so typically only 3-4 students out of 35 are hired as student techs every year. In LA they wont even let you work until you have recieved your temp lic. even if you have a BS degree. I think LA is just very strict. If you live in a rural area and they usually start student tech's at around $9-13 an hour. If you''re willing to drive to the bigger city you can get between $12-17 an hour, depending on the shifts you are willing to work. You may feel bad about not being one of the ones who is working already, but you shouldnt feel that way . It is a pity some states wouldn''t allow that, one should feel sorry :( for these guys. If you are hired as a student tech you pretty much do everything, sometimes totally on your own.You could shoot a portable chest all by yourself and not think a thing about it. At some sites you could be allowed to perform tons of portables alone, as long as a registered tech was within earshot... well, if you yelled really loud they mighta heard :) Rad tech students are sent to ICU to do portables all the time, usually accompanied by a fellow student. It's usually fine and you learn so much from having to think on your feet. You should be glad you're getting that experience. If you were able to work this way, would you do it? Or do you think you''d burn yourself out? in Nebraska senior x-ray students can be hired if they have their limited scope licensure. They are paid entry level wages for a limited scope radiographer. They have to follow limited scope regulations of course but help the department out in a big way. They kept the routine exams going while senior techs performed US, Mammo''s, CT, surgery, etc. They are not usually used for call but they are allowed to do that in Nebraska. Again, they can only perform limited scope duties so there would have to be an RT on call as their back up. It's a great way to get your feet wet before you plunge into the real world! Go for it! There is a hospital based program in California. The program a few years back(1995) gave a monthly stipend of 2,500 to each student, now there is no pay. Although they will hire student workers but only for filling or office work no X-Ray. Pay @10- 12hr. Students in New Hampshire and we are allowed to work as students. Each hospital has different pay scales, butmost start their student techs at $16.85 per hour. You cannot work in Maine or Mass without your degree, because you must have a state license.

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How do you perform a sternum and chest radiograph for trauma? This is how I do a sternum. You may have to adjust your technique with the differences in machines, films, screens ect. The first view is the lateral, I tell my patients to pull their arms behind their backs and grab their elbows. Or at least try.I do their RAO on the table, it is a very shallow oblique, about 15 degrees. Watch out for those breasts, they decieve your obliquity depth.\r\nI use a low kvp for bone detail, usually about 55-60 kvp. My mas is about 64-80. I use a 3 second exposure. \r\nanother trick an "old" tech taught me was to decrease your SID also. (the tube was pretty close to the patient) She would also of course decrease her technique. They were very nice radiographs. Sternums are so hard to come across. You could have been at two hospitals in your training and not even seen one done. You can simulate sternums. The lateral is like a chest x-ray except the arms are swung back slightly and it is shot 72 SID and tight collimation. the other one we learned is the RAO about 15-20 degrees and recommended breathing technique of at least 3 seconds. The main problem is with the RAO. You need a good manual tech. (breathing is essential) . One thing that is not taught now (at least I don't see it) is to use a minimal (1-2 inches) TOD. When I say 1-2" I mean from the bottom of the collimater, not true TOD. This will mag the sternum without distortion. Use a very low KVP. I use 50-55 kvp and 1/2 - 2 secs of exposure. This is the one exam that looks better with a large heavy breast female over a small patient. Good luck a good sternum is visually pretty. Techniques depends all on your equipment, grid ratio, film and screen combo, patient's habitus and distance, but of course you probably knew that already. 65 kVp sounds good and around 50-60 mAs (3seconds) is what I would try. If you are digital you will have more lattitude to work around the contrast as long as it is not under exposed. Always use RAO for oblique and longer exposure times along with breathing tech. The long exposure time blurs the heart shadow and the breathing blurs the lungs. Good luck with an RAO if youve had enough trauma to your chest to crack your sternum. its kinda like patellas.. there is a certain er doc that orders sunrises ALL the time and the patient is able to walk most of the time.. i want to just say what the... i dont think i would be walking if my patella was all broke up. I was taught, yearrrrrrs ago, to use a lateral T-spine breathing technique for lateral sternums. I have done that and it has worked well but not on obese patients. As for the RAO, the only time I get a sternum on that view is when I am shooting rib films, when you don''t need it!! That''s one view that should be taken off the books.'); Many techs rotate/oblique the patient too much on an RAO, and many don''t use the techniques recommended here and elsewhere: i.e., shallow breathing technique, low to mid-kVp (50 to 65 or 70), low mA (but long time), small focal spot, and short SID (30" or so)Ironically, some of the better sternum views I''ve turned out were done in the LPO position (on patients who couldn''t be placed PA/prone). In these cases, don''t use a short SID. Sometimes a dorsal decubitus (cross-table lateral) works best for the lateral view, and sometimes a lateral CXR works better (especially for obese patients, or those with large breasts), but with the arms placed behind the back, rather than above the head, in order to do two things: thrust the chest and sternum anteriorly, and remove the arms from the manubrium. And, though I like to collimate tightly for both the RAO and the lateral, sometimes it''s better to center posterior to the sternum on the lateral, to allow the divergence of the beam (DOB) to help "throw it out" from the heart and anterior ribs. There is no need for an oblique view of the ribs or sternum. In the case of fractured ribs there is no treatment for the actual bony injury so there is no need to visualise it. What the medics do need to see are the lungs and mediastinum in case of pneumothorax or vascular damage due to the mechanism of injury. So do a PA CXR instead and forget obliques. In the case of the sternum, any fractures will be seen quite clearly on the lateral view only. Ask the docs what they will be looking for on the obliques and I''ll bet they won''t say anything to justify these views. In the case of pathology, a nuclear med bone scan will be on order anyway and will be far more diagnostic than any radiograph; there are just too many overlying structures in the thorax. Quit worrying and just say NO. Try this instead of the RAO..works great with a table that goes up and down....and a patient with no beer belly. Line up the film in the bucky with the tube, the tube being angled 15'' caudad. Make sure you are collimated to the film size...10x12. Have your patient bend over at the waist and lay across the long side of the table and center at the t-spine, with the top of the lighted area a bit below the line of the shoulders. Do your own breathing technique. I use 50 kv/50 ma/3.5 sec av. It''s hard to describe but it was shown to me once and it came out great. The breathing technique to be employed is a SHALLOW breathing method, and neither the ribs nor the sternum (or the thoracic spine) should move if done properly. One should always have the patient practice the technique beforehand, and observe whether or not he/she is doing it right, before making the actual exposure. If he/she cannot breathe smoothly, and without moving his/her body, then one should use an alternative method, but for most patients, there should be no significant (detectable) motion of the skeletal system during this breathing exercise. Obviously, deep inspiratory and expiratory actions may well cause noticeable movement and blurring of all parts of the bony thorax, but this is not normally a problem with shallow, even breathing.One should use a MINIMUM of 1.5 or 2 seconds exposure time when employing such techniques, with, for me, 3 or 4 seconds being preferred, but I have used as much as 6 seconds on lateral T-spines and, for patients who can cooperate fully, even for the "swimmer''s view", without motion of the vertebrae, and Merrill''s mentions techniques employing as much as 7.5 seconds. (I would bet that Clark and others discuss this technique, as well. Do you imply that you know more than these respected authors?) I have even used shallow breathing techniques successfully when performing RIB exams, especially on elderly, asthenic patients. The intent is NOT to blur the ribs or T-spine or sternum, but only the blood vessels, heart and related lung markings, and--for ribs or the lateral T-/L-spine--the diaphragm, with much of the motion blurring being caused by cardiac and great vessel movements, rather than via significant respiratory actions.Also: The purpose of the short SID (as low as 30") on the RAO sternum is NOT to magnify the sternum, whose image should not be changed much since it lies close to the film--unless, as often occurs when the "novice tech" rotates the patient too much, the OID increases too much, resulting in more size and shape distortion, and less resultant recorded detail--but, rather, to magnify and "blur" (and further separate from the sternum, due to greater effect of the Divergence of the Beam or DOB at the shorter distance) the posterior ribs and thoracic spine. One can also use short SID''s to great effect in other instances: e.g., AP open-mouth odontoid views, PA and PA oblique sternoclavicular joints, etc. [A caveat: When automatic exposure controls or AEC''s ("phototimers") are present--whether actually being used at the time or not--there is usually an increased OID, compared to equipment without automated exposure controls, so using SID''s as low as 30" may indeed cause too much magnification, with resultant loss of recorded detail, of the area of interest, so I would not go below 36" or so in such instances.]As far as "modern" usage of AEC''s and Computed/Digital Radiography (CR or DR) are concerned, there are some exams for which these are not very effective (or just won''t work), due to limitations of the equipment, exposure parameters built into the system, tissue thickness/density variations within the patient, part-size vs. AEC "field" size, and so on. Sometimes, the old ways DO work best. Unfortunately, sometimes we are not able to USE the old ways, when "crippled" by limitations of some of the newer technology/equipment: e.g., upper exposure limits with some DR devices may make it very difficult to obtain high quality lateral radiographs of the spine on large patients, or may make breathing techniques impossible to use effectively.I have been in radiography for 35 years, as a staff tech, supervisor, manager, department director, instructor, and program director, and have utilized breathing techniques hundreds, if not thousands, of times, and with great success. This method does not work for everyone or, as noted above, with all equipment, and--as with any other technique--might have to be "supplemented" with additional views using alternative techniques, when one cannot see all of the AOI (for example, we usually still have to do a "swimmer''s" view for the cervicothoracic area on most patients, no matter how "good" our routine lateral T-spine film is, and might have to do a separate thoracolumbar lateral also, if the diaphragm is problematic when trying to show the lower T- and/or upper L-spine). But the method of choice for me will always be the SHALLOW BREATHING TECHNIQUE for some exams, including the RAO Sternum and Lateral T-Spine. You DON''t do a sternum with a "BREATHING TECHNIQUE" :roll: jeeeeeZZzzzz.Don''t you think the sternum will move as the lungs expand? HA! RAO with decreased SID of 36 inches or less to magnify the sternum.Low kVp to increase contrast; hi mAs technique implementing long exposure time to increase detail- I repeat not for a BREATHING TECHNIQUE.You might get lucky with a chest technique for the lateral view, but since that technique is primarily to demonstrate the lung field using High kVp and low mAs for short exposure to eliminate involuntary heart motion it is not the optimal technique. Reduce the kVp to 60-70 kVp and 10 mAs range depending on your system- grid, screen-film combination, etc.This is why the profession has moved to AEC, CR and digital systems- no one can think outside the boxes & buttons they push every day. :oops: Yea, the sternum will move with breathing.....just like the thoracic spine does. :roll: If you select a long enough breathing technique you will get a beautiful film. Anyway, I went to a school that taught me to use my brain and be creative. Back then, yes it has been 25 years ago, we didn''t use phototime for everything, didn''t have CR and all of the other new fangled techniques. We actually had to figure out a way to show what we needed to show and yes we actually had to think about it, calculate a technique and use our heads. I actually feel sorry for the students these days, they haven''t learned and used the true radiography techniques. And believe me, the breathing technique worked mighty well for a lateral sternum. Don''t knock it until you try it. There are still techs out there that don''t have CR and are working in rural areas that don''t have all of the luxuries that you have. Give em a break and pass on what you know and what we all have learned over the years. New technology is great but let''s not forget the basics. Our profession is truly an art and our talents are required and can be very rewarding.....if we are allowed to use them. I don''t believe pneumothoraces, lung contusions and other pulmonary/vascular/cardiac (or, for that matter, renal, hepatic, splenic or other upper abdominal) injuries always manifest themselves immediately, and I think demonstrating fractures of the sternum and/or ribs can be of great value in determining the need for "follow-up" studies, other exams (including CT, NM, angio, US), etc., and can help the MD in treatment planning, assessing medication needs, and so on.\r\n\r\nTo getbackjojo: Anyone can post an opinion or suggestion, but doing so in an insulting, deprecating or condescending manner is not usually welcomed, and will most likely result in some sort of "backlash". Even after 35 years in the field, I can still learn something new, but I can also recognize the value and validity of things "old", especially when I and thousands of others have used them successfully. And most radiologists will certainly let you know if there is "motion blurring" occurring, and would call for a cessation of such techniques if they were not "diagnostic".\ If I was working in a second-care hospital without CT, MRI, US or angio I would do rib and sternum views but I think only to prove the extent of the bluntness/force of the mechanism of injury. I mean, if you have a fractured sternum you''ve been subjected to some level of force. A thoracic CT is in order, maybe angio. Other than indicating the need for more advanced management, plain films won''t really do much wrt changing the patient''s management, will they? And any MD who knows his job will know enough of the patient''s condition from his vital signs to decide on the treatment. I personally don''t think these views will add to the decision making process nI guess in an ideal world, with everyone not only knowing but following correct protocols, and with fully competent and properly trained MD''s (and, more and more, PA''s, NP''s and others) available to assess patients'' conditions, order the right procedures, and make appropriate judgment calls, and if all patients could be counted on to recognize (and take seriously) any signs/symptoms indicating a worsening of their condition, and to make return visits to the MD or the ER as needed, I''d probably agree with you. But I can''t help but wonder how many patients might be (or are currently) sent home, and not followed closely enough (or given adequate instructions and precautions), if the clinician does not find immediate evidence, on initial CXR''s/other tests, of potentially life-threatening injuries, the true extent of which may not be manifested for hours or even days after the original events. \r\n\r\nWhile such occurrences might be more likely in facilities that don''t deal with trauma very often, I suspect they might also happen in major trauma centers that are so busy they might "overlook" (or neglect to consider fully) potential outcomes just because they "don''t have time" to explore all possibilities, or in facilities in which residents/NP''s/PA''s are largely responsible for assessing and treating patients. (On the other hand, sometimes residents et al may be more likely to order TOO MANY, rather than not enough, tests, so maybe the latter example is not "fair".)\r\n\r\nWhile it may be true that, in many instances, even knowing there are fractures of the ribs &/or sternum may not "always" affect the overall "action" and "treatment" plans, I still think there are a number of times when such awareness can (and often does) affect the MD''s decision-making, as well as how "aggressive" or "conservative" he/she might be in taking further action, ordering more tests, etc.\r\n\r\nAnd not even computed and digital radiography imaging can be counted on to display both bony and soft tissue details to best advantage on a single exposure, so even if these are available they wouldn''t necessarily be able to demonstrate all fractures of the ribs and sternum on a CXR, especially if only PA and lateral views are taken. The technique for a CXR may not show ribs below the diaphragm, for one thing. And the ribs are curved in several places, with routine obliques usually being necessary to show the axillary portions, and "shallow", "opposite of normal" obliques often needed to demonstrate fractures of the head and neck portions. (I worked in a major trauma hospital where we routinely did the usual 45 degree oblique of the affected side, and then a shallow oblique with the patient turned the opposite way, because a number of rib fractures of the head and neck area had been missed previously.) \r\n\r\nAnd while a lateral CXR "might" demonstrate a fractured sternum, it won''t show medial/lateral displacement, and often both the proximal (manubrial) and distal (xiphoid) thirds are difficult to visualize adequately on a single lateral radiograph of the chest. Sometimes the breast shadows, especially in young, large-breasted females, make images of the lower sternum difficult, possibly requiring the patient to perform some kind of "maneuver" to get them out of the way, or maybe necessitating "dorsal decubitus" ("cross-table lateral") views to allow gravity to help move the breasts aside. And even the anterior and superior mediastinal areas sometimes require a special "retrosternal"/"endolateral" projection (with the arms placed behind the back) to best demonstrate them, and these may also be needed to show the upper sternum.\r\n\r\nWhile I agree that we don''t always need to do these exams, and while they can be difficult on some patients, I guess I''d rather see them being done when not absolutely clinically necessary, than to have them "skipped" and then have the patient "go sour" because appropriate precautions were not taken, or additional tests or follow-up not ordered, simply because the full extent of the patient''s injuries was not known. The rib #s are not life-threatening, the consequences are so it''s the consequences - the pneumothorax, the vascular damage - that should be found. These are clinically evident, and even if they''re not, they will be suspected by a good doc anyway, due to the mechanism of injury or other known injuries. The imaging should be looking for these as these will change the patient''s management. \r\nAll administered radiation should be justified. To see a # just to know that it''s there and for that knowledge to not change ANYTHING for the patient is not justified. The lateral sternum will show posterior displacement which has significant consequences for the patient, the oblique may show other displacements but consequences of these will show on a CXR, and it''s those we need to see. If there are no consequences then no treatment needed, no change in patient management. Oblique ribs will show #s on the curve, that''s what they are designed for, but the consequences are what matter and a PA CXR is what is needed to see these. The consequences of #s of the ribs will change treatment techniques, the #s themselves won''t. \r\n~Anyway, we''ll agree to disagree. :)'); nThere was an interesting case involving an obese 50-year-old lady involved in a car accident in Johannesburg a few years ago. There had been a head-on collision and the patient complained of severe left-sided chest pain and difficulty in breathing. The chest radiograph revealed no pneumothorax, no haemothorax, but two rib fractures were seen. I can''t remember exactly which ones were fractured, but I know that the rib fractures were posterior and that they were both odd numbers. In other words there was an unfractured rib between them.\r\nAnyway, the poor lady started squealing and performing and the casualty doctor was doing his best to placate her by explaining that the pain was due to the two fractured ribs. There were no clinical indications to suggest any special treatment and under ordinary circumstances this lady would have been sent home with analgesics. \r\nThe lady was looking more and more uncomfortable despite the casualty doctor''s best efforts to help her and in the end a passing respiratory physician asked for formal rib views. Imagine my surprise when we found an additional 8 rib fractures. I''m not kidding. We put the original chest radiograph on the box and could not see those fractures. The patient''s obesity probably played a role here, but the lung fields were adequately exposed. The fractures were mainly anterior and lateral and comprised a flail segment.\r\nThe choice of management in that case was to admit the patient for a ''pleural block'' and have her breathing carefully observed.\r\n\r\nI found a link that advocates admitting a patient if certain conditions apply as relates to a flail chest:\r\n\r\n[url]http://www.eastbaytrauma.org/Protocols/ER%20protocol%20pages/Flail%20Chest.htm[/url]\r\n\r\nThey say that a CXR is ''not a reliable predictor of respiratory decompensation'' and that patients with 4 or more rib fractures merit admission for close observation.\r\n\r\nThe question then becomes twofold:\r\n\r\n1) In the absence of definite clinical and radiological features, does your ER department have a protocol that quotes the specific number of fractured ribs in a guideline for treatment?\r\n2) If so, what is the likelihood that a standard CXR will not reveal a flail segment as in our Johannesburg case above?\r\n\r\nI can''t answer those questions because I don''t have supporting statistics, but it would seem that in certain circumstances a rib view is helpful. For that reason I would not forsake the rib view completely

Is CA the only state to require a fluoro lic? does anyone know why they require it? What is the exam like? I'm not sure about other states. In the fluoro exam there are a lot of questions on radiation protection. There are a lot of experiments also. In Kentucky, a separate license is not required for fluoro, however, you are required to have a state license, unlike some other states like Georgia, which don't require any license at all, but most hospitals require ARRT certification. CA is the only state to require a fluoro lic. Does anyone know why they require it? What is the exam likeI think it's a joke. It''s just another way for the state of CA to rip you off.

Are most Rad Tech programs bachelor , associate or certificate ? You really shouldn't care if it's a bachelor or associate or even a certificate as long as the program is accreditated. Community colleges are not allowed to issue bachelor's degree? Many accept radiation physics as the physics requirement. I would say that as long as the tech school is accredited and will allow you to sit for the ARRT registry when completed than it should be okay

How do I get into a radiology assistant course? O know that there is an article about RA's in a recent issue of Radiology Today Magazine. Seems like the field is starting to take hold in the community and the ASRT has begun issueing grants to four programs that have begun offering degrees in RA. Check out their website or give them a call.... Hopefully they can help. In VA there are "tech aides" and one hospital there will only hire rad tech students as tech aides but other hospitals will hire anyone. I''m not really 100% sure if there are student techs allowed here other than as tech aides (which really just assist in maybe getting cassettes, bringing the patient to the dressing rooms, etc, nothing big. There are several limited techs, however, who feel they were, essentially, duped, when they responded to and enrolled in a local school which was offering the limited scope license. There are fewer and fewer clinics and hospitals who are willing to hire limited scope techs. Think through the long-term ramifications of these choices. 24 months is not much more than 15 months, in the long scheme of things. I hope you're not seriously thinking of enrolling the limited scope program. There's been many posting about the disadvantages of limited program that I think you are referring to. The pay isn't that great like the school told you. The Rad Tech [rogram only a semester longer than a limited scope program. I know the prerequiste takes time but I gaurantee you that is relevant and very important info. Math, Anatomy , physiology, and chem is used quite often as a radiographer. Really, u should look into it.

I am a working professional. Is there an age limit for entry into a Rad Tech program? At least half of a class in most Rad Tech Programs are in the over 30 group so you will not be not alone! Just to warn you, getting into a program can be tough work in itself. A school has ytpicall 300 applicants for about 24 spots for one year's class! It is very worth it though! You will love school and have so much fun! To find salaries for your area, check www.salary.com. There is a shortage of rad techs right now, so finding a job is not a problem! Good luck! You will find the first week of school was pretty interesting and quite a change from being a working professional. It really may feel weird to have all this free time to yourself. When I say "free time" I mean not having to worry about emails, voice mails, faxes, cell phone ringing, projects popping up and changing everyday. You will have plenty of lab work and reading to do but it's just weird being able to concentrate on one thing at a time. You will feel just so weird waking up, studying, maybe run some errands and/or workout and then go to class without having to worry about 30 emails and 10 voice mails piling up in an afternoon. YOu will feel compelled to be busy doing something so you may find yourself studying ahead of schedule at the start. Working in the professional world would have got you into that mode of thinking and planning ahead. One drawback about school, besides the money of course, is that the weeks and days do go slower. At work, you would always have been so busy that the day and week would just fly by. Now that you have so much time to yourself , you find the days as well as the weeks going slower.

What is the salary for a rad tech? For a starting rad tech with an Associates degree, the range seems to sit around $15 - $20 per hour... but it can vary. With the size of the Rad Tech shortage, in some areas you get to choose which job you like best .

What's a typical associate Rad Tech program like? An associate''s program is a bit different than others in the fact you rotate between doing classes only one semester then clinicals only the next semester. In a clinicals only semester, you go for 40 hours a week. Usually it''s Mon-Fri 8-4:30 kinda deal, with 2 double shifts on the weekend then doing another 8 hours one day during the week. You will typically do a total of a Fall, a Spring and a Summer semester like this, so it''s like you have a full year of working 40 hours a week. On other semesters you will have only classes, no clinicals. Kinda nice, breaking it up like that, but then again, you get used to not studying or get used to not doing the exams.

What''s a typical rad tech work day like? You will image about 50 patients, with all kinds of injuries, in various specialties, with overtime , on call, the usual office politics, coping with the usual staffing shortage.

Do all programs require you to write a autobiography? You may have some severe writer's block! Don't use "I am/I can/I did" to start sentences out. Its hard to not use "I" to start a sentence, try hard! Have you thought about writing it in the 3rd person, as if someone else were writing about you? It still qualifies as an autobiography, since you wrote it, but at least you wouldn''t have to deal with the I am/I can/I did situation. And don't forget to focus on the issue of what stirred you to become a tech. You should trade an autobiography for the 18 credits per semester you would have to do, to pull off an Associates in three years ;). Associate programs don't have an Autobiography, acceptance is based soley on Academics. In addition, ask friends, family and co-workers to give you one sentence that describes you. Once you get an idea to work with, you'll be off :)

is there a way I can intern or possibly just volunteer in a Rad Tech school ? If you're applying to schools for and want some experience before you start this is a good idea. Interning would depend on the school and if they have a program. If your close to a hospital you''ll probably have something available for you, but I believe you''d have to be in the program first. Volunteering is a bit different. Since it's not for credit, I''d just go to the closest hospital you have and ask if you can volunteer in the Radtech Department. Wouldn''t hurt :).

Do you know of an Educational Website for Cross Sectional Anatomy (CT). I've found numerous radiologic anatomy websites, but very few that include CT images. Any suggestions?

What are radiography classes like? The Radiography classes are pretty neat. Human Anatomy will probably be your toughest class. It will be a lot of work and reading. I have not used these sites but you can them a shot : Gross Anatomy (Tutorial) Net Anatomy Cross-section atlas

Interested in a travel Special Procedures job? There are several travel Special Procedures jobs , working on assignment. Looking for a tech with his/her ARRT with 2 years of specials experience. A tech with experience traveling and their ARRT(CV) would be perfect, Between my clients in the Northeast, Southeast and California; I should be able to keep this person rolling from one 13 week assignment into another for the foreseeable future. For those interested, you can contact N.M. Wilson at nmwilson@teamstaffrx.com

What is a typical day at work for a rad tech? The type and number of patients you will be seeing varies greatly depending on where you work, as well as the shift you work. One hospital may do a ton of ortho surgery where you would spend a lot of time in the OR. One may have a huge Urology department, and you may find yourself doing lots of IVPs and urology studies. One may have a busy trauma unit, where you will find yourself spending most of your day in the ER. Some places do mostly scheduled procedures and outpatients during the day, and lots of ER at night. I worked in a small(ish) community hospital for many years, and our duties were as varied as the day was long. Your day would usually start at 7:30am with four or five morning portable chest xrays. This would take about an hour. Now its time to help out with the fluoro schedule. One or two upper GI''s, two BE''s, and a few ER patients sprinkled throughout. By 11:00, the fluoro schedule is done, so time to move on to the walk-in chest xrays and the house patients that come down to the department. Uhoh...its 11:30 now, and Dr. Hurryup is calling wondering why his patient in room 307 has not yet had his small bowel-follow through. We sent for the patient an hour ago, but his nurse wasn''t ready to send him down, since he is on a monitor.....Go yell at the nurse, please! OK, so now a lady comes from the ER needing a hip, pelvis, and L-spine, since she fell at the roller rink. (Why was someone her age on roller skates in the first place?) You finish the xrays, and find one nasty hip fracture...so now you have to do a one-view chest since she will be visiting the OR later today. It''s almost lunchtime now. As you are headed toward the cafeteria, you hear the tech in the next room calling for lifting help. The poor tech has been blessed with the patient from room 307 who needs that small bowel follow through. Did I mention that this patient weighs 350 lbs and does not speak a word of English? Boy that lunch break will be a good one! After lunch, you are sent to the OR to do a cysto. Stone removal and stent placement might take about 45 minutes, since this is a particularly tough patient. After finishing that, you are called to post op to do a portable hip on our roller skater who just had her hip pinned. It is now about 2:30pm, and you return to the department to do an unscheduled IVP. This will take a minimum of one hour. As you are finishing the post-voiding films, you hear your supervisor talking on the phone with the ER....A busload of schoolchildren are on their way to the ER, there was an accident down the street. Ten minor injuries on their way, but most likely, they will all need c-spine xrays. The supervisor asks, could you stay for an extra hour, just until we clear up the kiddies? Whatever... you need the money.. and you love your job, you love your job, you love your job....Just keep saying it and maybe you will start believing it....lol It really depends upon your shift, and what day of the week it is. Weekends do not have the supervisors lurking about, and lots of the work is "stat" studies. It may be dead, or it may be a total zoo. If you work during the day, you will have lots of fluoro, outpatients, and house patients. If you work second or third shift, it will be mostly ER patients and stat portables for the critical care units. If a patient is gonna go sour, it never fails, it will happen in the middle of the night, or right at shift change. You will find that certain aspects of the job will really be your cup of tea. If you love ER patients, second shift would be great for you. If you prefer the more predictable pace of scheduled patients, and don''t mind working with lots of supervisors and managers around, then day shift would be for you. But no day can be completely predictable, due to the nature of the job. It is this point that makes radiology a never ending stream of changes and surprises. You certainly will never be bored doing xrays

I am currently in school studying MRI technology. I wonder if anyone knows anything regarding how one goes about breaking into the maintenance side of the business? The maintenance people usually are engineers of some sort, and none are rad techs. They are trained somewhat but mainly its just physics / engineering. I believe this career path is called Biomedical Equipment Repair or Biomedical Equipment Technician. There are 2 year academic programs that allow you to obtain either a degree and/or certification. You may want to contact your local BMET society for career projections and general inforamtion regarding the career path. Not to bash schools of higher learning but Devry has a program that is quite expensive, if you are considering a program look for more reasonably priced State-funded programs if possible. The following links with give some general info. on the field: (Career Info) (General Career Info) (Career Article) (Local Societies I wish you the best! :lol,

What are the protocols for taking the following films: Full leg (ankle - hip) x-rays standing & weight bearing, Knee with Varus stress, Knee with Valgus stress : in the U.S., many of these are no longer (or rarely) done in hospital or outpatient imaging centers, because of the following: CT, MRI, arthroscopy, computed radiography, digital radiography, "full-service" imaging services in orthopedic or other specialty offices, lack of availability (or prohibitive cost, relative to the frequency of the exams) of needed equipment, infrequent requests for such exams (and limited instruction of same in radiography programs, as well as limited coverage of them in the more popular "general radiographic positioning" textbooks), etc. If I''ve omitted anything, or if I''m "off the mark" somewhere, hopefully someone "out there" with more experience in these areas will write in to help us out.However, you might do a web search on Amazon.com, half.com, Barnes & Noble's web site, or even specific (medical) publishing companies'' sites, for information on these exams. Don't forget to check orthopedic-, as well as radiographic-, related web sites, as well as libraries in hospitals, radiologists'' and orthopedists'' offices, medical and radiography schools, and so forth. You might have more luck, actually, looking in OLDER versions of Clark''s or Merrill's (or other) texts, rather than in NEWER editions. You should have 14" X 51" (35.56 X 129.54* cm), or at least 14" X 36" (35.56 X 91.44* cm), cassettes, grid/Bucky and film--the latter, of course, not necessary if using CR or DR--and, preferably, wall-mounted cassette/grid holders or a "wall Bucky", as well as appropriate compensating filters (wedge and/or other) and gonadal shields of various shapes and sizes, whether of the "shadow" or "contact" type. The 14" X 36" cassettes and film will prove adequate for many pediatric patients, but not for most adults, and are also ideal for scoliosis exams. I would recommend purchasing AT LEAST two cassettes (and grids, if needed) of each size, for the following reasons: (1) You don''t want to have to keep the patient waiting while you go develop the first film, if doing both "neutral" and "weight-bearing" views; (2) You won''t be in a "bind" (having to wait until a new cassette, or new screens, arrive) should something happen to one cassette; and, (3) Some patients will be too large, or may have too much deviation from the normal angulation of the leg (as in valgus, "bowleggedness", etc.) to be able to fit both legs in their entirety on one film, necessitating either that one "put up with" the loss of the most lateral portions of one (or both?) legs, or that one examine only one leg at a time, if only one cassette is used, or that one have the ability to position two cassettes (and grids?) "side-by-side", in order to be able to examine both legs simultaneously. The only major disadvantage of the latter method--aside from the expenses and the time involved, compared to using just one cassette and possibly--i.e., most likely--"clipping" portions of the legs, is that you probably won''t be able to include the symphysis pubis on either film, and some physicians will not be satisfied with this "loss".And even if one has a wall Bucky, one might want to purchase also separate grids of the sizes indicated, for use with patients who must be examined in the recumbent position, or, as noted, for examining very large, or very "abnormal", patients. Film of the above sizes can be purchased in "folded" versions, allowing them to be stored in conventional film bins in the darkroom, or in "unfolded" form, which necessitates either a separate film bin or storage on the floor or on a counter--stood "on edge", of course--in the darkroom (the latter method being somewhat "risky", in terms of fog and other sources of damage). Ideally, true "gradient" screens, or at least cassettes with 3 different speeds of screens, for use in these exams, but I don''t know if these are commonly available any more. (For patients with very large thighs, hips and "bellies", using BOTH compensating filters AND gradient screens will prove helpful, but even then there may be problems with the very obese. I have sometimes had to fashion a "belly sling" for those with pendulous, protruding abdomens. You will want to use a large SID (probably 60-72" or 1.5-2 m), in order to be able to cover the entire film, unless you have a "dedicated" tube for this purpose (with a collimator, diaphragm or "cone" designed for such exams). You will also want to have a footstool or other device handy, or perhaps even have a "platform" built (with handrails or other means of support or, at least, "balance", maybe?), in order to be able to elevate the patient above floor level. Even when doing "weight-bearing" studies, many patients will need SOME form of nonintrusive (radiographically and diagnostically) device to help them maintain their balance, or at least to provide "security". Perhaps a single, or maybe even a pair of, adjustable bar(s)--such as are used in many departments when positioning for lateral chest x-rays--would be useful for these, or any other upright or weight-bearing, studies. If also performing scoliosis or other exams requiring their usage, be sure also to have an assortment of "blocks", of varying thicknesses (as prescribed by your physicians or others), to be used under the patient''s foot. Be sure your tube is of a design permitting it to be lowered to the floor, unless you want to have your patient standing a foot or more above floor level. If one has an "elevating" radiographic table--Or do you, like Clark used to, and perhaps still does, refer to it as a "couch"?--one can stand the patient on this, and elevate him/her to the desired height, but there are obvious safety hazards involved in having patients stand on tables. However, I like these tables for virtually any other type of exam, particularly when working with ambulatory and wheelchair patients, and maybe even more so for geriatric, mobility-compensated, handicapped and/or orthopedic patients, or when the patient cannot be stood fully erect and yet a relatively long SID is needed. (Together with a tube which can be raised to a fairly high level, a table with the ability to be lowered to a point roughly two feet from the ground can often permit SID''s of 60" or more. One should use mid- to high-kVp technics, for a number of reasons, but primarily to (1) reduce absorbed dose--of especial consideration in many of the exams you''ll be doing, because of the inclusion of the gonadal area and because you may be doing "repeat studies" on many of your patients\r\n--and (2) ensure adequate peneteration of the upper femur and hip, and (3) provide more "exposure latitude", so that, together with the use of gradient screens and compensating filters, one obtains a more "uniform" radiographic or optical density, from hip to ankle. Finally, you will probably need to have a long, graduated metal ruler, or some other means of measuring and comparing "leg lengths", to aid the physician in making accurate, comparative assessments of the two legs. (Some might also want to use additional devices to aid in the determination of the magnification of the image vs. the true object size.) [NOTE: One can also perform "leg length" studies using CT, or via "slit scanography" (using a very narrowly collimated beam and, preferably, a "floating--or even automatically and/or incrementally moved--tabletop", in order to be able to move the patient smoothly--and ONLY longitudinally, with no lateral or transverse motion--during the exposure, or via some means of moving the tube--and film?--itself, as opposed to moving the patient, as described in older versions of Merrill''s/other positioning texts), or via "spot" imaging (preferably using a cylinder cone, with separate images taken over the hip, knee and ankle). Both methods generally require also the use of the aforementioned metal ruler/similar device. Slit scanography is not often attainable in the erect position, however "Knee with Varus stress" "Knee with Valgus stress" nI''ll discuss these two together... Generally, we did these exams with the patient in the recumbent position, and applied the stress manually, with the physician (preferably) or the technologist applying the force "directly" to the patient''s knee, but there may be methods of performing these "automatically", so I''d check with your x-ray equipment suppliers. (Personally, I would no longer do the "stressing" myself, as I think this is something the physician himself/herself should be performing, and because most radiation safety regulations require that mechanical restraining, positioning and immobilization devices be used unless clinically contraindicated, and that the radiographer NOT be used to hold patients on a routine basis. And if they insist on the technologist being the one to do it, I''d proceed with extreme caution, and would only apply as much pressure as the patient seems able to tolerate. I''d also try to extend my arms as much as possible when doing the study, so my trunk could be as far as possible from the primary beam and the patient.)Obviously, the "stresser" should wear appropriate protective apparel (including leaded, or lead-equivalent, apron, thyroid shield, glasses and gloves, all of which should have a minimum Pb equivalency of 0.25 mm, and preferably 0.5 mm Pb eq.,with the gloves in particular necessitating the greater thickness, since the hands might end up in the primary beam).In order that the stresser''s hands (and the lead gloves) not be superimposed on the anatomy or area of interest (AOI), it is important that radiolucent sponges, or similar devices, be used between the stresser''s hands and the patient''s knee. Obviously, the patient (particularly a pediatric or young adult patient) needs to be shielded, as well.Some departments utilize devices which can be clamped (or secured via "suction cups" or other means) to the table, and these are, I believe, still available commercially, from x-ray (or orthopedic, or surgical?)equipment supply companies. They were mainly used during arthrography of the knee, and this is not done much any more, but you might still be able to find them. There may even be immobilizing and/or "stress-application" devices which allow one to apply/measure specific amounts of force during these exams.Nonetheless, even though they may simplify the process of "everting and inverting", so to speak, the knee, someone still may have to be physically present in the room, in order to secure the ankle and foot, to ensure the proper alignment of the extremity--e.g., to help maintain the leg in a "true AP" position--and to apply the necessary "varus and valgus" forces or movements. (It might be feasible to use other means of securing the lower leg, and there might even be devices for this purpose, as well, so I''d check the supply catalogues for these instruments, as well.)The above should also be useful if asked to do similar views of the ankle.If these are to be done with the patient in the erect position, you might need to review some of the suggestions (equipment- and safety-wise) noted in the previous discussion (re: "long-leg" exams). In fact, you might need to do "weight-bearing" views of the knee anyway, if working in an orthopedic office (or if performing exams for an orthopedist in a hospital or imaging center), so you will need 14" X 17" (35.56 X 43.18* cm) cassettes, grid/Bucky, and film, since we often examine BOTH knees simultaneously, on one cassette, when performing weight-bearing AP/PA views, and perhaps 8" X 10" (20.32 X 25.4* cm), 10" X 12" (25.4 X 30.48* cm), and/or 11" X 14" (27.94 X 35.56* cm) cassettes, grid/Bucky, and film, for use when performing separate AP, lateral or other views of the individual knee. NOTE: You may also need to purchase, or have manufactured for you, a device allowing you to perform "Merchant''s views" of the patella and femoropatellar space, if you''re going to be doing a lot of knee exams.I hope you find the above useful. And I hope if I''ve left anything out, or have "steered you wrong" in any way, others will post messages to amend, modify, or elaborate on, my discussion.* Metric sizes for cassettes, grids and film may vary from those given; for example, many departments use 20 X 24 cm, 24 X 30 cm, 30 X 35 cm, and 35 X 43 cm, metric versions, with the actual dimensions of at least two of these (the 20 X 24 cm and the 24 X 30 cm) being smaller than their British/U.S. counterparts (8" X 10" and 10" X 12"), and of one (the 30 X 35 cm) being larger than its English system counterpart (11" X 14"), so one needs to be sure the preferred sizes are ordered, and that the film dimensions match those of the cassettes. You could try contacting Siemens Medical, they have developed a full leg length measurement system and might be able to give you the info you require or at least point you in the right direction. Please contact the orthopaedic hospitals in the UK. Musgrove Pk in Northern Ireland, Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic at Oswestry, Wrightington Hospital in Wigan, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital at Birmingham, Nuffield Orthopaedic at Oxford or Stanmore Hospital in Essex. All I am sure will have sufficient requests to undertake these on a regular basis and can advise on where the necessary equipment can be obtained in the UK as well as having written instructions for new staff

I am about to graduate as an RT(R) and I will be going into MRI right away. Question, will I be able to find me a position as an MRI tech with so little x-ray experience and even less in the MRi field? I think you''ll have a hard time getting an MRI job fresh out of RT school. If you can find one, great...but don''t bank on it. If I were in your shoes I would look for an RT job. When you interview, tell the Director/Manager that your goal is to get experience in RT, while developing MRI skills. Try to get a committment from the manager that if you do things right in your job and progress with your education, that he/she will work you into the rotation for MRI in the next year. Within 6-12 months you should be picking up occasional shifts and developing those MRI skills.A couple words of caution: Ask the mgmt how many techs they have crosstrained into other modalities in the last 2 years. Ask what did the techs who got crosstraining do differently than the ones who weren''t allowed to crosstrain. Ask him/her what you specifically would need to do to get crosstraining. Get a firm committment. Make sure you educate yourself to show them you ARE going to get into MRI...if you are proactive it will be much more likely to happen. Bust your rear and be a stellar RT tech...until the time comes. If they don''t regularly crosstrain techs, look for an employer who does

Looking to relocate to sunny California? Our client is a large California hospital who is looking for new graduate or experienced Rad and Nuclear Med Techs. The chosen candidates will become part of an expanding and stable hospital system. This hospital provides a competitive benefits package including 401 K savings plan, income replacement, medical/vision/dental/life insurance, online educational programs and tuition reimbursement among other incentives.If you are a new graduate and looking to develop your career, or if you are experienced and want the opportunity to move up the chain of command, please apply via e-mail to careers@marieadamsassoc.com or via fax 972-298-1191. Please feel free to call 1-800-706-1388 for more information. Why don't you try to job shadow at your local hospital. Call the hospital and ask to follow a MRI tech around to get an idea what a MRI tech does. It's very easy and most hospitals are opened to having a potential student around since most porgrams requires at least 8 hours of job shadow. If you are in an RT program you should hang out in the MRI dept. from what you will see the physical work is getting the pt on and off the scanner. Most of the time when a pt is too heavy the tech would ask for sliding help and everyone seems happy to lend a hand. Hope that helps .

How do you a cassette crosswise into an upright bucky ? To place a cassette into the upright bucky, see if your equipment has a movable cassette support built into the tray, should be a metal object that has a flat top side (where the cassette rests) and a couple of pegs that fit into holes placed vertically on the tray. This will support the cassette until you can close the clamp on it.Blockers: Placement depends on what exam you are shooting.... KUB goes down... keeps it out of the abdominal cavity.... CXR goes up, keeps it out of the lungs.

Is there anything i should know before travelling as a Rad Tech? Every travel company works a little different and offer different things to their travelers. Find out what these differences are and try to stick with the one(s) that fit you the best. Take the time to fill out packets for several of the companies. It will take a lot of time, but it keeps you from having to jump through so many hoops for another company if the one you are currently traveling with doesn''t have jobs and you have to go with another travel company.Keep in touch with those recruiters and be up front and honest. Never burn a bridge and always be friendly, even in stressful situations...you will be in this profession for a long time and you don't want anyone to pass you over for a job because you were rude or unprofessional.Take things with a grain of salt. As a traveler there will ALWAYS be things that annoy, frustrate or flat out piss you off. Pick your battles and when you have to be firm, do it professionally and politely...this will help you greatly, although you might not even notice the results.Get licensed in several states. About half of the travel jobs I get require state licenses and most of the time it takes 2-6 weeks to get a license in that state...so the travel tech with the license in hand is the one I present for the assignment. Every time you take an assignment, get licensed in 2 other states during that assignment. More assignments = more opportunities. Get licenses in different areas of the country. If you''re only licensed in warm weather states, you may have a hard time getting work in the winter...more competition for those jobs may keep you from getting an assignment in the south, but if you have licenses in colder states you''ll likely keep working instead if sitting around out of work.Keep current on all of your medical records and keep copies with you. Always have a PPD and physical within the last year. Good luck and I hope this helps.FYI: The travel market isn''t great right now, so get everything ready and shoot for the beginning of the year at the earliest

Looking for a rad tech job? There are currently openings throughout the country, both travel and local assignnments! If you aren't making at least $34 an hour as a General Radiology Tech give them a call and they can change that! Full Time, Part Time and Pool positions.Their phone number is 866-831-1391 and their fax is 610-889-9071 ParamountPlacement Permanent opportunities now also available Nationwide.nAbove average salaries and terrific benefit packages. All modalities Get your feet firmly planted into some of the nations top hospital systems. Email jeff.wadowsky@princetonsearch.com with any Questions or for More details.

I have noticed that some schools that are accredited with ARRT are not accredited with JRCERT. I understand that one must enroll with a JRCERT accredited school to be a valid rad tech. However, JRCERT does not have as many programs on it''s list of schools than ARRT. My question to all the professional radiography students out there is, "Will it make a difference if I go to a school that is NOT JRCERT accredited but IS ARRT accredited as opposed to one that is accredited by both organizations (JRCERT and ARRT)? I''d hate to go through 2 years of intensive training only to find out that I''m not qualified because JRCERT said so The ARRT is what makes us "registered rad techs" so if the school is accredited by them then that means they accept that school for you to become a registered tech. That is all that matters! JRCERT or ARRT accredited is what you need.

Once I graduate form my RT program, I will have dabbled in CT, MRI, Plain film, and Nuc MEd. Now, once I graduate is there any way I can go directly into CT, or MRI??(Instead of just going into plain Film) Shoot for an employer that likes to crosstrain their techs and does so on a regular basis. Once you start with crosstraining in the specialty, work quickly to get the ARRT certification in that modality

RT Job Opportunities in Sunny Florida , There are currently have openings in SUNNY Florida for Radiology professionals. All modalities, CT, MRI, Nuclear, Ultrasound....All positions are Full-Time Permanent.If you are interested please contact Rolando Acosta at 813-630-9000 or e-mail racosta@lloydstaffing.com

I am a first year xray student and I am having trouble with IVP exams. I can never get my centering correct for the KUB and kidney films. On the KUB I either clip the kidneys or the bladder. Does anyone have any tips on positioning for these exams What i teach our students is to feel for the crest, go slightly past it and then feel for xiphoid tip to make sure you include kidneys.. you can also raise your SID to about 44 inches. hope that helps. what we learned when positioning for a KUB was to feel for the greater trochanter, this is approx on the same level as the pubic symphysis and make sure that this is where the lower border of your light is. Also feel for the xiphoid process to make sure that you are getting that in the upper margin of your light. Then you will have everything in between. This is great for textbook cases, but how many of those do you see everyday? Sometimes, in the real world, you have to do 2 films and run the films horizontally, especially if the pt is really large. 'Think of it this way....On the films immediately post injection you want to make sure you see the kidneys. That''s where all the action is. Take a good look at your scout film before the injection so that you can decide if you need to adjust your positioning. Once in a great while you can get kidneys, ureters and bladder on one film. But not often. So if you can''t, make sure the kidneys are on the first film or two following injeection. After that, you may need to do seperate bladder shots. But always make sure you get the kidneys on oblique views. IVP''s are tricky so you need to show as much as possible. Your scout view tells you a lot. Also, if you have the luxury of a Radiologist, Urologist or other physician to look at the films as you take them, ask them for direction

RT Job Opportunities in Sunny California There are many opportunities in California for rad and rad/ct techs. All fees hospital paid. Tonya Beauchamp will negotiate your recruitment package for you. Gemini Medical Staffing, LLCgeminimedstaff email: tonya@geminimedstaff.com 866-296-8164 877-4GMS-FAX

How is the the Radiography Program at Ferris State University ? Hey Everyone! My name is Mickey and I am currently in my second year of the Radiography Program at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan. The program here is fantastic!! I, am a non-traditional student. (I''ll be 40 when I graduate next year!) This is by far the best decision I have ever made! The program is evolving into a 3 year program (currently two years). I am doing my internship here in town at Mecosta County General Hospital. I am having a blast! The techs here are awesome and anxious to share the knowledge. Ferris State University accepts 60 students a yearand, of course, there is a 1 year waiting period. The professors are excellent, easy going, good teachers. They want you to succeed! I did rather well in the classroom and am currently facilitating the Structured Learning Assistance Program here at Ferris. That's fancy for professors assistant. Two nights a week I teach what the professor went over in class to students having a difficult time. The first month of the class is alot of math and physics. Be prepared to give up partying for a couple of years (except during school breaks!) but it is well worth it. The job market is awesome as well! Lots of positions available country wide. Check out AuntMinnie.com for more info. Remember,x-ray techs have insight!! If I can be a single-mom and do it, so can you! Lots of luck you all, keep in touch!

Travel Ultrasound Positions Available Emergency Medical Staffing currently has several openings in the SouthEast for general ultrasound. Positions are looking for an immediate start but could be flexible for the right candidate. Great location, great pay! All travel perks including, free furnished apartment, tax free perdiems, car subsidies etc. Call Erin Patrick for details or for immediate consideration fax resume to 888-367-1329 or email Erin at erinpatrick@911staffing.com

How far would you drive to Rad Tech school? I had a student that drove 200 miles round trip everyday. Arrived at clinicals on time at 7:00 am. She was married with three kids and she never complained..she was about 35+ years old. Currently I have a student 26 yrs olds who has a small child and she drives 60 miles one way everyday. It takes commitment and support from ALL your family AND friends to complete an intense program like radiography even under the best of circumstances. On the other hand I had a 22 y/o male student who complained constantly about driving 30 minutes to clinicals-I had no sympathy - it is the choice you make and you deal with the consequences. Good luck- only you know if you have the stamina to be sucessful.\r\nP.S. the former student I spoke of who drove 200 miles everyday, is now a CT /MRI tech living in her community, very happy, :D :D and financially set.

What the different projections of radiographs of the lumber spine? These should be pretty good answers to your questions. I will start with the projections taken. The projections that would be taken to view the L.S. (lumbo-sacral) spine will be as follows. AP (anteroposterior), Lateral, and a L5S1 (5th lumbar vertebrae and sacral promontory) spot, usually done laterally, but can be done AP also The lateral spot is the only film done on a 8x10 cassette, and is also exectued properly when a 5-7 degree caudad (toward the feet) angle is used on the tube. All other films are done on 14x17 cassettes and only collimated laterally on average sized or larger adults. Pediatrics should be collimated in both aspects and appropriate shielding should be applied on male patients. Female patients cannot be sheilded because the anatomy being demonstrated would be covered by the sheild as well due to the anatomic placement of the sex organs. Other views such as flexion/extension views and obliques can be done as needed. Each radiograph with the exception of the spot, should include the entire lumbar spine (5 vertebrae) and the lower thoracic vertebrae as well as the sacrum coccyx. Images should also be well collimated to reduce the scatter and produce the clearest image of the part intended to be studied. All views mentioned can be taken either standing or lying on the table if needed.The anatomy that would be demonstrated would be as follows. The entire lumbar column, the inferior thoracic and sacrum. The sacroiliac joints must be included as well as the entire spinous process on the lateral and the all transverse process on the AP. These are the basic structures. Other things that may be considered would be the lamina, pedicle, inferior and superior articulating facets. The body of the vertebrae as well as the intervertebral disk can be seen. Psoas major muscles can be seen as well as parts of the ilium, pubis and ischium. Gaseous or stool filled intenstine can be seen as well. Some soft tissue can be seen.Some reasons that one would need to have the L.S. spine radiographed could be any of the following. If someone just had spinal fusion or is being checked for range or motion an AP and flexion extension views would be taken. Trauma may include obliques, however they may also be done to better capture any pathology that could be caused by any of the these; It could pain in the lower back, sciatica, dejenerative disk disease, chiropractic reasons, follow up on operations or therapy, pre operative exams, post operative exams, trauma, slipped disk, bone spurring, compacted or subluxed disks or scoliosis. There are many more reasons one may need the films, but this was just a few.

why does the ARRT requires a photograph of an applicant? Our program director had said that they use this at the testing site to make sure the person showing up to take the exam is the person who went through school and sent the application in. She said that it needed to be recent, with no major changes in hair style, hair color, etc. I can't think of any other reason why they would require a pic.

Do all schools require licensing? Many rural hospitals have run into problems getting state licensure because of a strong lobby from physician''s and rural hospital administrators defeating licensing laws.\r\n\r\nThere would be a leveling of pay, and supply & demand if ALL states accepted ARRT registration as the only standard for employment. Instead some states require licensing which perpetuates more fees, more bureaucracy, more classism within the profession.\r\nThe fact is you can still practice radiography whether you are ARRT certified or not in many states that have licensing laws. It protects no one.\r\n\r\nIt is great for students to have an opportunity to work but their legal liability soars , along with that of the hospitals''. But students usually don''t think about medical malpractice. \r\n As my colleague, Bill Mulkey, says, " Students get nosocomial infections, senioritis, by working too much" if allowed to in states with no licensing laws. They do get more experience, financial aid toward living expenses, tuition, etc. but they can get burned out and resent working for free during school hours when they would rather be earning money as a student radiographer.\r\n\r\nThe going rate for students in Montana is $16.00 hour

Looking for a Radiology Technologist placement? Jeff Wadowsky specializes in permanent placement of Radiology Technologist in all Modalities everything from Directors, to Managers as well as General Techs. He has worked with hundreds of hospitals and medical practices to help fill their most critical staffing needs. I am currently working with a Couple of facilities that are looking for Techs both with and without experience. I would be more than happy to talk to anyone considering making a job change or someone who is in the process of finishing there training. The market place is a living a breathing thing, always changing. If you would like to know about current opportunities as they become available and before they are advertised in the Journals, please contact me. I find the best people for the best jobs and the best jobs are filled before they are advertised. \r\n\r\nAlways willing to help. Jeff Wadowsky Princeton Search Group 877-324-8618 ext. 229 jeff.wadowsky@princetonsearch.com

What factors in the x-ray tube can effect on the image quality? ..\r\n\r\nfirst of all, the lead-lined shielding around the x-ray tube..it absorbs the scattered radiation which effect on the image an reduce it resolution..\r\n\r\nalso..the inhereted filtiration plays a role...for exmaples, we use 3 mm of AL as a filitration in most x-ray tube to abosrbe soft radation which reduce image quality..\r\n\r\nwhat is more, collimaters can effect too. for example, if we cone more the scatter radiation produce will be less the image resolution will improve..\r\n\r\n\r\nand different metrials are used, to reduce scattered and improve image quality.

What are the responsibilities of a PACS manager? A PACS manager is responsible for leading the implementation and day to day operations for the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). The PA organizes, directs and develops project team resources in order to effectively meet the implementation project commitments of the department and facilitate growth for staff in the areas of technology, client business and project management. \r\nWorks closely with Imaging staff to ensure proper operation of DICOM digital image transfer into PACS system as well as network transmission, RIS validation and exceptions handling. Works closely with Imaging Management team to oversee and coordinate strategic planning for medical imaging initiatives and changes in workflow processes to increase productivity and billings. Responsible for monitoring of the operation budget relative to PACS. Works in cooperation with the Imaging Services Director in identifying present and future needs for equipment installation. Coordinates all training and implementation of PACS to ensure appropriate training levels are acquired. \r\nMinimum Qualifications: \r\nBachelors Degree, Masters preferred. At least five years experience in radiology operations and/or healthcare project management. Interpersonal skills required to interact with customers and clients. Analytical problem solving skills. Basic understanding of applicable operating systems software and web browser use required as well as familiarity with radiology information systems applications. \r\n\r\nIs responsible for leading the implementation and day to day operations for the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). The PA organizes, directs and develops project team resources in order to effectively meet the implementation project commitments of the department and facilitate growth for staff in the areas of technology, client business and project management. \r\nEssential Responsibilities: \r\nLead the implementation of PACS by identifying Imaging Department system and operational requirements including vendor selection and contract negotiation. Works closely with Information Systems in the development of operating standards, policies and procedures. Oversees activities of vendors in all phases of installation and implementation of PACS system. Maintains records on equipment malfunctions and arranges for repairs, as needed. Responsible for day-to-day operation of PACS equipment including image workflow, archiving and other related duties. Works closely with Imaging staff to ensure proper operation of DICOM digital image transfer into PACS system as well as network transmission, RIS validation and exceptions handling. Works closely with Imaging Management team to oversee and coordinate strategic planning for medical imaging initiatives and changes in workflow processes to increase productivity and billings. Responsible for monitoring of the operation budget relative to PACS. Works in cooperation with the Imaging Services Director in identifying present and future needs for equipment installation. Coordinates all training and implementation of PACS to ensure appropriate training levels are acquired. \r\nMinimum Qualifications: \r\nBachelors Degree, Masters preferred. At least five years experience in radiology operations and/or healthcare project management. Interpersonal skills required to interact with customers and clients. Analytical problem solving skills. Basic understanding of applicable operating systems software and web browser use required as well as familiarity with radiology information systems applications