MRI equipment exposes patients to a low amount of radiation.
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists (MRI techs) are radiologic technologists who have specialized in the use of MRI equipment. Radiologic technologists use various types of imaging technology and radiation to produce images of internal parts of the body. These images are used to diagnose medical conditions. Techs specializing in MRI use non-ionizing radiation waves to create detailed, three-dimensional images of a particular organ or body structure, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Education
Magnetic resonance imaging is just one specialization in the field of radiography. Most MRI techs complete a post-secondary educational program in radiography or radiology technology. Although there are certificate and bachelor programs available, most techs earn a two-year associate degree from a community or technical college. These programs will include coursework in anatomy, physics, patient care, radiation, imaging and ethics, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can search for an accredited educational program in your area on the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology's (JRCERT) website.
Clinical Practice
A major component of medical training programs is hands-on practice. Most programs require clinical practice during the year you plan to graduate. You will observe radiologic or MRI staff in a hospital or other health care facility. In addition, you will perform duties-including imaging procedures and general patient care-under the supervision of staff at your clinical training site. You should expect to perform procedures such as taking patients' vital signs, cleaning MRI equipment, maintaining quality control standards and assisting with MRIs. These clinical activities are not only required to graduate but also are mandatory for certification.
Licensure & Certification
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most states do require licensure to be an MRI tech. However, each state has different regulations and you will need to contact your state's board of health for more information. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) maintains information on their website regarding each state's licensing requirements as well.
Certification may not be mandatory for MRI techs, but your job prospects will be more likely to improve if you obtain certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification examinations for a variety of careers in this field. In addition, many states that require licensure use ARRT examinations as part of the license requirements. You must complete an application available on the ARRT website in order to get approval to take the exam. Providing documentation of your accredited educational program and clinical experience is required to get application approval. The MRI certification exam covers patient care, data processing and imaging. Pearson VUE administers the exam at testing centers throughout the United States. You can find a testing location near you by visiting pearsonvue.com. Once you pass the exam you will earn certification in magnetic resonance imaging. The ARRT requires that you complete 24 continuing education credits every two years in order to maintain certification.
Tags: Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, educational program, Labor Statistics, resonance imaging
