Career as an X-Ray Technician

Updated On: 24-May-2022

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X-ray technicians, also called radiologic technologists, take images of various body parts using special equipment. The films or images of a human body part are taken, are used by the radiologist or physician to diagnose a patient's medical condition. Precautions must be taken to ensure technicians' and patients' safety when working with radiation.

First, the technician must explain the procedure to the patient and situate him or her on a table. The technician then selects the correct angle and contrast in order to produce the most accurate picture of the area in question.

X-ray technicians use a wide variety of modern imaging technology including:

Traditional X-ray machines
Computerized axial tomography (CT)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Fluoroscopy
Film and digital mammography

One can also choose to specialize in a particular type of machine or clinical area. Technology is changing very quickly so there is always something to learn, and the technician has to continually upgrade and enhance their skills through continuous learning.

Also Read: How to become a Nurse?

Job and duties of an x-ray technician:

Receive instructions from doctors regarding the x-ray patients require
Get the clear imaging result as per the requirements
Answer the patients questions if any and assist him/her during procedure
Follow the safety regulation during the procedure to protect yourself, patients and other team members

In addition to operating imaging equipment, x-ray technicians are responsible for basic maintenance and upkeep of the machines. They also keep detailed records of each procedure.

To be eligible, you must pass at least your 10+2 or higher secondary exam. There are many 1 year or six month courses available after 10+2. Some institutes offer courses at the 10th level also.If you are willing to make a career as an X-ray technician then; you need to earn a degree or diploma in related technology from a reputed institution. After that, start applying for jobs or join an experienced technician as an assistant to gain experience.To work in this field, you need:

Ability to operate and maintain imaging equipment

Mathematics and science skills

Stay up to date with the latest technology and equipment

Stamina to work on your feed for longer hours and to help patients into moving into proper position

Good communication skills

Patience to handle the different kind of patients

Basic computer knowledge

Should be able to troubleshoot minor equipment problems

This might be a perfect career for those who like to work with a team and really excited to help diagnose diseases and injuries.Working hours for an X-Ray technician depends on the workplace. Hospital / lab wherever you work will decide the working hours. Normally an x-ray technician has to work 5 or 6 days or 40 - 48 hours in a week.The Pay in this field totally depends on your experience and place of work. It can be different in government and private hospitals. If you plan to start your own lab, then it totally depends on the number of patients.
In the beginning, one can get an average salary of Rs. 7,000 to 10,000.X-Ray technicians are commonly employed in hospitals, physicians' offices, and outpatient care centres, etc. You can also start your own lab after having a good experience.
As the health sector is growing day by day so in future, jobs in this field also suppose to grow in the same ratio.