Perhaps the most familiar use of the x-ray is the diagnosis of broken bones. However, medical uses of radiation go far beyond that. Radiation is used not only to produce images of the interior of the body, but to treat cancer as well. At the same time, the use of imaging techniques that do not involve x-rays, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance scans, is growing rapidly. The term "diagnostic imaging" embraces these procedures as well as the familiar x-ray.

In nuclear medicine, radionuclides—unstable atoms that emit radiation spontaneously—are used to diagnose and treat disease. Radionuclides are purified and compounded like other drugs to form radiopharmaceuticals. Radiologic technologists and nuclear medical technologists operate sophisticated equipment to help physicians and other health practitioners diagnose and treat patients.

Radiologic technologists prepare patients and operate equipment, keep patient records, and adjust and maintain equipment. They may also prepare work schedules, evaluate equipment purchases or manage a radiology department.

Electroneurodiagnostic technologists use instruments such as an electroencephalograph (EEG) machine, to record electrical impulses transmitted by the brain and the nervous system.

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians assist physicians in diagnosing and treating cardiac (heart) and peripheral vascular (blood vessel) ailments.

Nuclear medicine technologists administer radiopharmaceuticals to patients, then monitor the characteristics and functions of tissues or organs in which they localize. Abnormal areas show higher or lower concentrations of radioactivity than normal.

 

Radiologic and nuclear medicien technologists and technicians work in clean, well-lit, comfortable surroundings, usually hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics or other diagnostic service providers. they usually work a regular 40-hour week, but tachnologists employed in facilities taht operate around the clock, this may include nights, weekends, holidays and overtime. Some technologists may be on-call in case of emergencies.

Although potential radiation hazards exist in this occupation, they have been minimized by the use of lead aprons, gloves and other shielding devices, as well as by instruments that monitor radiation exposure. Technologists wear badges that measure radiation levels in the radiation area and detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose.

 

Patient care can be very physically demanding, so good health and stamina are important. Meticulous personal hygiene and a fanatical regard for cleanliness and safety are a must for all healthcare workers.

Patient care professionals must be sympathetic, patient and caring. They need a calm temperament and emotional stability to cope with human suffering, emergencies and other stresses, as well as excellent interpersonal skills and a cheerful disposition. They must be responsible, alert, observant and able to work as part of a team.

Radiologic and nuclear medicine technologists must be able to follow precise instructions. Good manual dexterity and an aptitude for working with precision machines is important.

 

As the population grows and ages, increasing the demand for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technology will continue to increase. For example, radiation therapy will continue to be used—alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy—to treat cancer. Although physicians are enthusiastic about the clinical benefits of new technologies, the extent to which they are adopted depends largely on cost and reimbursement considerations. Some promising new technologies may not come into widespread use because they are too expensive and third-party payers may not be willing to pay for their use.

Jobseekers are likely to face competition from many other qualified applicants for most job openings through the year 2006. In an attempt to employ fewer technologists and lower labor costs, hospitals have begun to merge radiologic with nuclear medicine technology departments. Consequently, technologists who can perform both radiologic and nuclear medicine procedures will have the best job opportunities. The streamlining of these departments has led to slower job growth in hospitals at the same time that the number of qualified applicants entering the field has increased. The imbalance between job openings and jobseekers has caused competition for jobs to become intense. Though it is unclear how severe the imbalance will remain, it is expected to persist at some level through the year 2006.