Radiologic Technology (510907)

In the Real World

What does a Radiographer do?

Radiographers use radiation equipment to produce images of the tissue, organs, bones, and vessels of the body, as prescribed by physicians, to assist in the diagnosis of disease or injury. Radiographers use problem-solving and critical thinking skills to perform medical imaging procedures. They must be able to communicate effectively with patients, other health professionals and the public. The radiographer must display competence and compassion in meeting the special needs of the patient. Additional duties may include evaluating radiologic equipment, providing patient education, and managing a medical imaging department.

Radiographers are employed in health care facilities including specialized imaging centers, urgent care clinics, and private physician offices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual income for radiologic technologists is approximately $60,510. The projected growth in job opportunities for radiologic technologists will be in the 7% range over the next decade.

Resources

• Clinic Handbook
• FDTC Etrieve Central for Form Submission
• Health Science Program Eligibility Form Instructions (Detailed)
• JCERT Standards
• RAD Weighted Calculation 2021
• Radiology Program Effectiveness Statistics 2023

Learning Goals/Objectives

Program Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

Goal: 1 Critical Thinking: Students will acquire critical thinking skills in order to problem solve effectively in a changing healthcare environment. Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will adapt positioning for geriatric examinations
• Students will demonstrate utilization of proper exposure factors on exams requiring 3 or more exposures

Goal: 2 Communication: Students will acquire appropriate communication skills among patients and all members of the health care team and patients. Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will use effective oral communication skills with patients
• Students will practice appropriate communication skills with members of the health care team

Goal: 3 Professionalism: Students will model professional skills. Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate professionalism through values and work ethic within the clinical setting.
• Summarize the requirements and value of continued medical education for lifelong learning.

Goal 4-Clinical Competence: Students will become knowledgeable, clinically competent radiographers while demonstrating radiation safety practices. Student Learning Outcomes

• The student will be able to provide basic patient care to patients encountered in the radiology department.
• Students will demonstrate the application of appropriate radiation protection.
• Student will demonstrate ability to produce and evaluate images for radiographic quality.