X-RAY TECHNICIAN

Definition

Under direction of a supervisory officer in a clinic, hospital, sanitarium, or other institution or agency, operates x-ray equipment to make x-ray exposures; assists the physician in making fluoroscopic examinations; processes x-ray film; prepares reports and maintains records and files; does other related duties as required.

Examples of work

• Sets up and operates stationary and mobile x-ray equipment.
• Prepares patient for radiographic examination, fluoroscopy, and/or therapeutic treatment as prescribed by physician.
• Positions patients under apparatus, adjusts immobilization devices, and attaches lead plates to protect unaffected areas.
• Administers drugs and chemical mixtures to render organs more opaque.
• Adjusts switches and controls regulating length and intensity of exposures.
• Takes x-ray photographs of various portions of the body.
• Aids medical personnel in treating diseased or affected areas of the body by exposing area to specified concentrations of x-rays for prescribed lengths of time.
• Prepares the solution and develops x-ray films and plates according to established photographic techniques.
• Files film, makes appointments, and calls for patients.
• Prepares reports and maintains records of services rendered.
• Cleans and maintains x-ray equipment in efficient operating condition.
• Mounts dental films.
• Keeps x-ray and dark rooms in a clean, orderly condition.
• Makes minor adjustment to x-ray equipment.
• Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

License

Applicants must possess a current, valid license as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (LRT)(R) issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Knowledge of x-ray procedures.
• Knowledge of operation and care of x-ray apparatus used in making radiographic examinations and treatments.
• Knowledge of procedures and materials used in preparing the solution and in developing x-ray plates and films.
• Knowledge of methods used in making fluoroscopic examinations.
• Knowledge of precautions to be taken to avoid harmful effects of x-rays both to the operator and to the patient.
• Knowledge of methods most likely to be effective in getting patients to follow directions.
• Ability to analyze x-ray problems.
• Ability to organize assigned work and develop effective work methods.
• Ability to understand, remember, and carry out written and oral instructions.
• Ability to learn quickly from written and oral explanations and from demonstrations.
• Ability to operate and care for x-ray apparatus.
• Ability to prepare the solution and develop x-ray films and plates.
• Ability to mount dental films.
• Ability to assist physicians in making fluoroscopic examinations.
• Ability to keep the x-ray and dark rooms clean and in order.
• Ability to work harmoniously with associates and patients.
• Ability to prepare clear, sound, accurate, and informative reports containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Ability to keep essential records and files.
• Ability to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
• Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
• Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The definition and examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.