Medical Imaging Technologist
(Medical Diagnostic Radiographer, Diagnostic Radiographer, Radiographer)
Fact Sheet
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Taking an x-ray to monitor a patient's healing |
Medical imaging technologists operate X-ray and other imaging equipment, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound, to produce radiographic images which are used in the diagnosis and subsequent management of disease or injury.
Duties and Tasks
Medical imaging technologists may perform the following tasks:
- receive and interpret requests from medical practitioners for X-ray examinations to be performed on patients
- determine the appropriate imaging techniques to provide diagnostic information for the doctor
- calculate details of procedures such as length and intensity of exposure to radiation and settings of recording equipment
- explain procedures to patients and address any concerns they have about radiation processes
- make sure patients receive the correct preparation for the procedure
- correctly position the patient and imaging equipment to obtain the best image of the area being examined
- make sure of the patient's welfare during the examination, including radiation safety
- develop the X-ray films
- check images to determine if any further views are necessary
- operate special equipment such as fluoroscopy equipment (which gives a moving image of the part being examined), angiography equipment (which gives images of blood vessels) and computed tomography (CT) equipment (which gives cross-sectional images of the body).
Specialisations
Experienced radiographers may also develop further skills in image interpretation.
A sonographer operates ultrasound machines and related equipment to produce images for medical diagnostic purposes.
An MRI radiographer operates MRI scanners and ensures patient safety during the procedure to produce detailed images.
Quick Facts
School subjects that include some aspect of MATHEMATICS provide a useful background to these jobs. In some cases a mathematics-related subject is a pre-requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
School subjects that include some aspect of PHYSICS provide a useful background to these jobs. In some cases a physics-related subject is a pre-requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
These jobs require you to be able to see clearly to examine items close-up. It covers jobs where poor vision e.g. tunnel vision, could make the work place unsafe or the job difficult to undertake, e.g. draftsperson working with detailed drawings; checkout operator reading dockets; work requiring good hand-eye co-ordination for working with precision or semi-precision tools.
Workers performing these jobs would usually be expected to spend more than three-quarters of their day indoors, in an office, factory or other enclosed area protected from the weather.
These jobs require moderate or better reading and writing skills. Workers may be expected to prepare, understand or act on written materials, such as letters or reports. People may wish to avoid these jobs if their reading or writing English skills are limited to a small range of words or phrases and symbols. Jobs remaining may still require very basic reading or writing skills.
Included are jobs providing health care diagnosis and treatment, such as general medicine, pharmacy, optometry, radiography, speech therapy, dental health, etc. Also covered are community and welfare services, such as social work, family and children services, and counselling, and personal services such as hairdressing and funeral services.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH PEOPLE, to help, inform, teach or treat them. Activities include discussing personal issues, listening to people's problems, and providing advice, instruction, information or treatment to meet their needs.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH THINGS, using the hands, or special tools or equipment to make, fix, install or adjust them. Activities include doing practical and physical tasks, and may require an understanding of how equipment or machinery works.
Jobs in this group usually require completion of a recognised Bachelor Degree, or extensive relevant experience. Some jobs also require post-graduate study, such as a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Master Degree.
Work Conditions
Medical imaging technologists who are employed in a hospital may work in the radiology department, use mobile X-ray units at patients' bedsides or work in an operating theatre. They work as part of a team with other health professionals, medical staff and nursing staff. Hours of work may involve weekend or shiftwork. Participation in an on-call roster for after-hours emergencies may also be required.
Personal Requirements
- enjoy science
- able to work accurately
- able to work as part of a team
- eye for detail
- enjoy helping people.
Related occupation videos
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Diagnostic Radiographer
Sonographer
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