Radiological Technology

An x-ray image is produced when a small amount of radiation passes through a body part and is captured to produce a black-and-white image.

Body parts that are difficult for x-rays to pass through, such as bone, appear white on the x-ray image. Body parts that the x-rays penetrate easily, such as the lungs or other areas filled with air, appear black. Soft tissue (like muscle), blood vessels and organs usually appear as various shades of gray on an x-ray image, depending upon what they are made of.

Once the x-ray radiation passes through the body, it is captured by an imaging plate, connected to a computer, which creates a visible image.

Using their specialized knowledge of the human body, the Radiological Technologist will position the patient based on the area that their physician or care provider has concerns about. The patient may be able to sit down and have the x-rays taken at a tabletop. The patient may also be able to stand up while they take the images, or sometimes, they may be required to to lie down on a table. No matter how the image is taken, the Radiological Technologist will instruct the patient on how to move. The time it takes for the exams are relatively quick. Most images take between 5 and 15 minutes to complete.

Radiological Technologists provide care to patients receiving the following exams and more:

• An X-ray: digital images of the lung, bones, joints, abdomen, and spine to detect fractures or disease
• A mammogram: digital images of breast tissue to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages
• A CT scan (Computed Tomography): cross sectional x-ray images of the organs, bones and tissues of the body
• Fluoroscopy: A real-time x-ray video showing how the systems, like your stomach and bowel, function in the body. This is also used in operating rooms during surgeries
• Interventional Radiology: uses fluoroscopy for procedures like biopsies, or for treating conditions of the blood vessels throughout the heart, brain, and body

Radiological Technology can be an excellent career for people who enjoy healthcare, science, patient interaction, and advanced medical technology. It is a profession that combines technical expertise with compassionate patient care.

You may be well-suited for Radiological Technology if you:

• Enjoy working with people: Radiological Technologists interact closely with patients throughout diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Strong communication skills, empathy, and professionalism are essential, especially when working with anxious or seriously ill patients.
• Are interested in healthcare and science: A strong interest in anatomy, physiology, radiation physics, and how the body functions is important. Radiological Technologists must understand both normal and abnormal physiological processes.
• Like hands-on technical work: Radiological Technology involves operating specialized imaging equipment such as digital x-ray, mobile x-ray, fluoroscopy, and CT.
• Have strong attention to detail: Small technical errors can affect image quality, radiation safety, and patient care. Accuracy and careful observation are critical in imaging.
• Can think critically: Radiological Technologists regularly assess patients, adapt imaging procedures, troubleshoot technical issues, and recognize abnormal findings that may require immediate attention.
• Work well under pressure: Healthcare environments can be fast-paced and emotionally demanding. Radiological Technologists provide essential care 24 hours a day and must be able to adapt to changing shifts. Radiological Technologists need to remain calm, adaptable, and professional during stressful situations, emergencies, or difficult patient interactions.
• Value lifelong learning: Imaging technology and clinical practices evolve quickly. Successful Radiological Technologists are committed to ongoing learning, change, and professional development.

You may not be well-suited for Radiological Technology if you dislike or find it difficult to:

• Work closely with people who are sick, in pain, anxious, or emotionally distressed.
• Pay close attention to detail for long periods of time.
• Follow strict safety protocols and procedures consistently.
• Work with needles, injections, and intravenous procedures.
• Stand for long periods and provide physically demanding patient care and heavy lifting.
• Work independently while using strong clinical judgment.
• Stay calm during emergencies, trauma situations, or when encountering serious diagnoses.

Examples of courses in the program:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Skeletal Radiography
• Imaging Equipment
• Applied Pathology
• Health Care Ethics
• Clinical Skills for Health Practice
• Digital Imaging
• Introduction to Health Practice

View all required courses and descriptions for the Radiological Technology Program&苍产蝉辫;禄

Accreditation Canada is the program's accrediting body. Further information can be found on , including a list of all accredited Radiological Technology programs within Canada.