As the medical field has continued to expand, there has been an increased demand for medical personnel, including X-ray technicians. However, before you can become an X-ray technician, you need to know more about the education requirements for this profession. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about X-ray technician education requirements.
Firstly, what is an X-ray technician? An X-ray technician, also called a radiologic technologist, is a medical professional that uses imaging equipment, like X-rays, to help identify injuries or illnesses. The technician operates the equipment, prepares the patient for the imaging, and works with physicians to interpret the results of the imaging.
Most commonly, to become an X-ray technician, one has to acquire an associate’s degree in radiologic technology. However, some programs can also offer bachelor’s degrees, certificate programs, or hospital-based programs. The most commonly chosen pathway is the two-year associate’s degree program.
The courses that are included in an X-ray technician’s education are anatomy and physiology, medical ethics and laws, radiation physics and protection, imaging procedures, medical terminology, patient care procedures, and pathology. Moreover, the clinical portion of the education includes hands-on experience in real clinical settings, where students can apply what they learned in their theoretical studies.
Completing this education is just the first step in becoming an X-ray technician. Once the education is completed, students must also take the National Certification Exam, which is required by a majority of employers. The exam is aimed at ensuring that X-ray technicians have met the required standards of competency for entry-level positions within the profession.
Beyond this, there is a requirement for ongoing education to maintain the certification as an X-ray technician. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are necessary to ensure that X-ray technicians receive designed education programs, which help them stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and other changes within the medical industry.
In conclusion, becoming an X-ray technician is a challenging task that requires a full commitment of time and energy. However, as the demand for medical professionals continues to rise, the job of an X-ray technician remains rewarding. To stay on top of their profession, X-ray technicians must remain educated and informed throughout their career. Understanding the education requirements of an X-ray technician is a foundation to embarking on this fulfilling career path.
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