About MRI Technicians
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial to the healthcare industry. Much like an X-ray does for the bones, MRIs allow a doctor to look inside a patient to spot any build-ups, legions or other unnatural substances that may be harming a patient. Though MRI technicians are mainly charged with operated the large, complex MRI equipment, their tasks extend well beyond that, meaning that those who wish to pursue a career as an MRI technician should first ensure that they have the patience, stamina and strength to properly handle the delicate equipment and the delicate cargo that they must position inside the machine.
Function
MRI technicians operate magnetic resonance imaging scanners to obtain the necessary images for the ordering physician to view a specific body part, identify any problems and come to the proper diagnosis and treatment route. Because these images are extremely detailed and crucial to the proper diagnosis, MRI technicians must follow the ordering physician's instructions impeccably, especially when it comes to placing the patient correctly into the scanner to allow for optimal imaging. This can be an arduous task, and requires that an MRI technician have a fair amount of physical strength.
Geography
Many MRI technicians work in the radiology departments of hospitals, which is where a majority of MRI's are ordered. A fair amount of technicians also work in imaging centers that may be attached to healthcare facilities, such as doctor's offices, trauma centers and urgent cares.
Features
In addition to being a good listener and direction taker, an MRI technician must be detail-oriented, well spoken and patient. Undergoing an MRI procedure can be a stressful and intimidating experience for a patient, especially if this is their first time. MRI technicians must be able to articulate what is going to happen, how the patient needs to position himself, how long the procedure will take, and what the patient should expect during and after the procedure. These instructions are crucial to not only obtain the correct imaging, but also to the mental health of the patient, who oftentimes must be soothed and calmed prior to undergoing the MRI. Special care and attention should be paid to the elderly and young, as well as people who express a claustrophobia or a fear of confined spaces.
Time Frame
An MRI technician, like other healthcare workers, usually works a 40-hour work week. In order to become an MRI technician, one must undergo a training program that varies in length from one to four years. Obtaining your MRI certificate only takes one year, though this program is reserved for members of the health field who are already specializing in some form of radiology. There is also the two-year Associate's Degree or a four-year Bachelor's Degree that technicians typically pursue in radiology. Nearly 40 states have also introduced licensing regulations for MRI technicians, which varies. Many MRI technicians choose to become certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), which requires a certification exam, though this certification cannot supercede any licensing requirements set forth by the state.
Considerations
Very few people choose to become an MRI technician outright. Most enter the field of radiology first and gain a few years of experience as an X-ray technician before pursuing a specialty position as an MRI technician. Some do, however, pursue their degrees in radiology without obtaining any practical experience as a radiology technician.
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