Radiation and imaging methods are employed in the medical discipline of radiologic technology to diagnose and cure disorders. Radiographers, sometimes referred to as radiologic technologists, are medical specialists who conduct diagnostic imaging tests and provide radiation therapy treatments.
History and Evolution of Radiologic Technology
The discovery of X-rays in 1895 by Wilhelm Roentgen, a German physicist, marked the beginning of the field of radiology. Roentgen discovered that X-rays could travel through human tissue but left shadows of bones and metal objects on a photographic plate. This ability to reveal the internal structures of the body without surgery revolutionized medicine.
Within months of Roentgen’s discovery, the first crude medical X-ray images were produced. The first official radiology department opened in 1896 at Glasgow Royal Infirmary in Scotland. Soon after, radiology departments appeared in hospitals around the world. However, there were risks associated with X-rays due to the lack of safety protocols and understanding of radiation exposure at the time.
Radium was discovered by Marie and Pierre Curie in 1898, introducing radioactivity for medical purposes. In the early 1900s, radium treatments emerged for cancer. Radium tubes and needles implanted in or near tumors delivered targeted radiation therapy.
The 1920s saw the development of increasingly sophisticated fluorescent displays and X-ray tubes, which increased image quality. With the widespread installation of X-ray departments in hospitals after World War II, radiologic technology flourished. Detailed 3D images of anatomy were made possible by the 1970s debut of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, further revolutionizing radiography.
The need for technicians with higher training increased as radiologic technology developed. In the 1920s, the first radiologic technology training programs were created. Programs for certification and licensing of technicians quickly followed to assure their competence. In 1922, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists first started giving certification tests.
Education and Training
To become a radiologic technologist, individuals must complete an accredited program in radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance imaging, or sonography. Most radiologic technologist programs take 2-4 years to complete and lead to an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Programs provide instruction in anatomy, physiology, pathology, physics, radiation safety protocols, ethics, patient care, and the operation of radiologic equipment. Students get hands-on clinical experience in hospital departments and clinics. Program graduates must pass a certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists to become licensed radiologic technologists.
Continuing education is critical due to the rapidly evolving nature of radiology. Many radiologic technologists obtain advanced certifications in areas like mammography, MRI, or CT scans. Some pursue bachelor’s or master’s degrees to advance into roles in education, management, or research.
Roles and Responsibilities
Radiologic technologists perform a vital healthcare role.Them work closely with radiologists, doctors who interpret medical images in order to diagnose illnesses and injuries. Technologists operate sophisticated equipment like X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI scanners to produce detailed images of the body. They are responsible for:
- Explaining procedures and equipment to patients, addressing concerns, and providing assistance
- Positioning patients appropriately and adjusting equipment settings to optimize image quality
- Implementing radiation safety and protection measures for patients and staff
- Detecting any issues during scans and determining when images need to be redone
- Recording accurate patient histories and exam details for the radiologist
- Evaluating image quality and forwarding images to the radiologist for review
Radiologic technologists work in various healthcare settings including hospitals, clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, and radiation therapy departments. Some work evening or weekend hours. With experience, some technologists advance into supervisory or administrative positions.
Specialties
Radiologic technology encompasses several imaging and treatment specialties:
Diagnostic Radiography
Produces X-ray images of bones, organs, and structures inside the body. Common exams include chest, abdominal, musculoskeletal, and dental X-rays.
Mammography
Involves producing detailed breast images to check for early signs of breast cancer. Requires advanced certification.
Computed Tomography (CT)
Combines X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional 3D images inside the body. CT is used to diagnose causes of injury, disease, and infection.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed 3D anatomical images. MRI is ideal for soft tissue, brain, and spinal imaging.
Ultrasound
Uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal organs, muscles, tendons, and fetuses during pregnancy. Also called sonography.
Radiation Therapy
Treats cancer and tumors by administering concentrated doses of radiation using linear accelerators and other devices.
Nuclear Medicine
Involves preparing and giving patients radioactive drugs called radiopharmaceuticals to diagnose or treat diseases. Images show how drugs concentrate in tissues or organs.
Importance of Radiologic Technology
For properly identifying and monitoring medical diseases, medical imaging is essential. It offers significant understandings that support treatment choices and allow less invasive methods. The delivery of radiation therapies and the creation of clear, precise pictures are the duties of radiologic technicians, who are important members of the healthcare team. Their expertise and compassion provide top-notch patient services that help save lives.
Over the last century, radiologic technology has revolutionized contemporary medicine despite being first met with skepticism. Imaging technology is developing quickly, which offers fresh promise for identifying illnesses sooner and improving patient outcomes. The pioneers of this life-saving technology will continue to be radiologic technicians.
What are the requirements for becoming a licensed radiologic technologist?
Here are the main requirements for becoming a licensed radiologic technologist:
- Education – Complete an accredited radiologic technology program, usually an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Programs take 2-4 years and provide instruction in areas like anatomy, radiation physics, equipment operation, patient care, and safety procedures.
- Clinical Training – Radiologic technology programs require supervised clinical experience in a healthcare setting like a hospital. Students get hands-on practice operating equipment and working with patients.
- Certification – Passing the certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is required. The ARRT exam tests knowledge and skills in radiation protection, imaging procedures, patient care, and other areas.
- Licensing – After becoming ARRT certified, technologists must obtain a state license to practice. Requirements vary by state but often include passing the ARRT exam, submitting an application, and paying licensing fees. Some states have additional requirements.
- Continuing Education – Most states require licensed radiologic technologists to complete 24 hours of continuing education biennially or annually to stay updated on best practices and new technologies.
- Background Check – Applicants for ARRT certification and state licensure undergo a background check and review for any issues that may preclude licensing.
- High School Education – A high school diploma or equivalent is required for entry into a radiologic technology degree program and the field. Background in math, science, biology, and physics is helpful.
Meeting these educational, examination, and licensing requirements ensures radiologic technologists are qualified to provide safe, effective patient care and high-quality imaging services.
