Frequently Asked Questions

A radiologic technologist processes detailed images of the bone structure and soft tissue of a human body appropriate for analyzing and diagnosing, applies appropriate patient care, and recognizes patient conditions essential for successful completion of the procedure. Diagnostic radiologic technologists employ a range of sophisticated equipment to produce high quality images to diagnose an injury or disease. They use a range of modalities including:

• X-rays - to look through tissue to examine bones, cavities and foreign objects

• Ultrasound - uses high frequency sound and is increasingly used due to its versatility in obstetrics, including fetal monitoring throughout pregnancy, gynecology, abdominal, pediatrics, cardiac, vascular, and musculo-skeletal

• Fluoroscopy - live motion X-ray (constant radiation) usually used to image the digestive system

• CT (computed tomography) - which provides cross-sectional views (slices) of the body

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) - builds a 2-D or 3-D map of different tissue types within the body

• Nuclear medicine - this uses radioactive tracers which can be administered to examine how the body and organs function, for example the kidneys or heart. Certain radioisotopes can also be administered to treat particular cancers, (i.e. thyroid)

• Genuinely interested in the welfare of people

• Good organizational skills

• Responsibility and dependability

• A detail-oriented person

• Compassionate

• A team player, but also able to work independently

• Good verbal and written skills

• A "people person"

The job performance of the radiologic technologist requires certain basic physical and mental abilities. Challenged persons who are capable of the following technical standards will be considered:

• Sufficient eyesight to observe patients, manipulate equipment and evaluate radiographic quality

• Sufficient hearing to assess patient needs and ability to communicate verbally with other health care providers

• Sufficient verbal and written skills to communicate promptly and effectively in English

• Sufficient gross motor skills and fine motor coordination to respond promptly, manipulate equipment, perform moderate lifting and ensure patient safety

• Satisfactory intellect and emotional functions to exercise independent judgment and discretion in the safe technical performance of medical imaging procedures

Please see SCC's information for prospective students.

Radiologic technologists can work in various healthcare setting that includes hospitals, clinics, and medical offices and on mobile units. As a radiologic technologist you will be working with patients of all ages and at various levels of care, from outpatients to the critically ill.

Radiologic Technologist: Spokane, WA 99216

• 25th percentile: $48,449

• Median: $52,892

• 75th percentile: $58,581

Source: www1.salary.com 4/2018