To become an x-ray machine operator, one must complete a radiology certification program, take a licensing exam if required, and gain experience. High school courses in physics, math, chemistry, biology, and health are recommended. Accredited radiology programs offer basic and radiology-specific courses, and hands-on clinical studies. Upon completion, a competency test is required for licensing. Advancement is possible with more education and training.
To become an x-ray machine operator, also known as a radiologic technician or entry-level radiology worker, an individual must complete a minimum of a radiology certification program, take a licensing exam if required by their jurisdiction , and order open X-ray exams. ray machine operator positions. A student can do this in 21 months to four years, depending on how specialized she wants to be. Individuals starting out as entry-level or limited operators can advance in the field of radiology with more experience, training, and education.
When a person wants to become an x-ray machine operator, the first task is to prepare for the position in high school. Courses applicable to radiologic technician work include physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. If offered, a person must also take courses such as health or health professions in addition to computers and communications.
Once a person has a high school diploma or a graduate equivalence diploma (GED), they should investigate radiology programs, available at some hospitals, as well as vocational and technical colleges, traditional colleges, and universities. The absolute minimum amount of training earns a certificate, with certificate programs lasting 21 to 24 months. Individuals can choose to pursue an associate degree, which is the most prevalent educational level for radiology technicians. This makes sense for students because the amount of time can be identical to a certificate program and because an associate’s degree makes it easy to go back to earn a higher degree. If a person wants to be more competitive or specialize in radiology, they can obtain a bachelor’s degree.
When looking at radiology programs to become an x-ray machine operator, the student should check if the program is accredited. Accredited means that a larger agency or organization has reviewed the program and endorses it based on the fact that the program meets industry-specific requirements and standards. In the United States, the main accrediting agency for radiology programs is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiology Technology. Enrollment in any accredited radiology program requires submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation preferably from radiology majors, a formal application form, and an entry or processing fee.
Once accepted into a radiology program, someone who wants to become an x-ray machine operator takes basic or fundamental courses such as anatomy and physiology. Radiology-specific classes such as radiation physics, patient positioning, radiobiology, imaging principles, and radiation protection are also included in the curricula. Additional studies include pathology, medical terminology, and medical ethics. While some courses are available online, virtually all programs require students to complete hands-on clinical studies in order for practitioners to physically practice x-ray related tasks.
Upon completion of a basic radiology program, a person wishing to become an x-ray machine operator must take a competency test to obtain a license, if required by their jurisdiction. Testing and licensing ensure that the student understands not only the technical principles of x-ray machine operation, but also the applications of x-ray in the medical environment and what is needed to keep technicians and patients safe during x-ray procedures -x. If a person receives additional education, work experience, and training, they can advance to higher-level radiology positions such as a radiologist technologist or assistant.
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