Description
Perform diagnostic imaging examinations using X-ray, CT, MRI, and fluoroscopy by operating imaging equipment, positioning patients, and ensuring image quality and safety; prepare and administer nonradioactive contrast materials under physician direction; maintain records and collaborate with the care team.
- • Review and evaluate images for diagnostic quality, repeating views as needed.
- • Operate imaging equipment (X-ray, CT, MRI, fluoroscopy) to produce diagnostic images.
- • Position patients and select protocols to optimize visualization of requested anatomy.
- • Set exposure factors, scan parameters, and slice planning per exam specifications.
- • Apply radiation safety (ALARA) and MRI safety practices for patients and staff.
- • Explain procedures, obtain consent when required by policy, and ensure patient comfort.
- • Verify orders, indications, and contraindications; clarify with providers as needed.
- • Screen patients for pregnancy, allergies, renal function, and MRI contraindications or implants.
- • Prepare, administer, and monitor contrast media under radiologist or protocol direction.
- • Establish and maintain IV access for contrast when permitted by policy.
- • Enter patient and exam data; select and run scan sequences; adjust coils, transmitters, and receivers.
- • Acquire scout and diagnostic series; perform post-processing, reconstructions, and annotations.
- • Operate PACS/RIS to transmit, archive, and track studies; verify routing and accession numbers.
- • Maintain accurate patient records, dose indices, and procedure documentation.
- • Set up and stock exam rooms; perform equipment warm-ups and daily QA checks.
- • Perform image quality control tests and report equipment malfunctions promptly.
- • Assist radiologists and advanced technologists during complex or fluoroscopic procedures.
- • Operate mobile and C-arm units in OR, ED, ICU, or bedside settings.
- • Monitor vital signs and patient status during and after imaging; escalate abnormal findings.
- • Provide physical assistance with transfers, positioning aids, and immobilization devices.
- • Educate patients and families about preparation, aftercare, and contrast precautions.
- • Follow infection prevention, sterile technique, and isolation protocols.
- • Coordinate workflow with schedulers, nurses, and technologists to optimize throughput.
- • Prioritize STAT and inpatient exams while maintaining outpatient schedules.
- • Participate in on-the-job training, precept students, and share best practices.
- • Maintain current exam protocols and assist with protocol optimization with radiologists and physicists.
- • Support radiation dose monitoring programs and MRI safety audits.
- • Perform administrative tasks such as answering phones, scheduling, and retrieving prior images.
- • Prepare materials and supplies; track inventory and request replenishment.
- • Assist with department initiatives, including new equipment commissioning and software upgrades.
- • Adhere to regulatory and accreditation standards and department policies.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
