|
Radiologist Assistant
A radiologist assistant (RA) is a high
level radiologic technologist (RT) who works under the close
supervision of a radiologist to perform and assist with advanced
tasks. Specifically, an RA performs radiologic examinations, is
involved in patient management and evaluation, and assists the
radiologist with invasive procedures. The RA also may be responsible
for making preliminary judgments about image quality, making initial
observations of images, and forwarding those observations to the
supervising radiologist.
Although radiologist assistants are able to perform functions beyond
those of a radiologic technologist, the position holds certain
limitations. An RA may make initial observations of images but may
not draft an official written interpretation. Radiologist assistants
may not perform selected radiology procedures without radiologist
supervision.
The RA position is a new addition to the diagnostic radiology team.
Currently, there are 10 radiologist assistant programs in the
country, six offering master's degrees. Radiologist assistants
complete an academic program and a radiologist-supervised clinical
internship. An RA must be certified by the American Registry of
Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Radiologic Technologist
The radiologist usually receives
assistance from a radiologic technologist. Primarily, a technologist
operates the radiographic equipment to produce images. This involves
explaining procedures to reassure the patient and obtain
cooperation, positioning the patient on the examining table, and
adjusting immobilization devices to obtain optimum views of specific
body areas. The technologist moves the imaging equipment into
position and adjusts equipment controls to set exposure based on
knowledge of the procedure and on established guidelines. To prevent
unnecessary radiation exposure during some procedures, a
technologist uses radiation protective devices, such as lead
shields, and limits the size of the x-ray beam. The technologist may
also operate mobile x-ray equipment to obtain images in the
emergency room, operating room, or at the patient's bedside.
Technologists assist radiologists in the use of general radiology,
computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and
ultrasound (US). Depending on the type of radiologic procedure, one
of the following may be assisting the radiologist:
• CT technologist
• MRI technologist
• Sonographer (ultrasound)
• Radiographer (x-ray)
Usually, a technologist has undergone two years of formal training
or two - four years in an academic environment, leading to a
certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree. With
additional training, a technologist can specialize and work almost
exclusively with specialized radiographic equipment. Radiologic
technologists are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic
Technologists. To remain registered, technologists must complete
continuing education credits.
Radiologic Nurse
The larger medical centers may employ a radiological
nurse who provides for the physical, mental, and emotional needs of
the patient who is undergoing tests or treatment in a radiology
department. The radiologic nurse usually develops and manages a care
plan to help patients understand procedures and, later, recuperate
from the procedures. This may also include working with a patient's
family.
The nurse can perform examinations or carry out preventive health
measures within the prescribed guidelines and instructions of the
radiologist. In addition, the nurse can record physician findings
and discuss cases with either the radiologist or other health care
professionals. Often, a radiologic nurse will assist during
examinations or therapy. Radiologic nurses must have graduated from
an accredited nursing school. Each nurse must also pass a national
licensing examination.
|
