The History of X-ray Technologists

Today x-ray technologists commonly referred to as x-ray techs are a component of a well qualified and diverse profession. The history of this profession is closely linked to the discovery and creation of x-rays themselves.

The x-ray was first discovered in 1895 by Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen. The discovery was initially acknowledged with some cynicism. However, within a few months machines were developed to use x-rays and the medical possibilities were gradually recognized over time. Early on doctors were the first x-ray technologists, and the dangers of radiation were unknown. As the dangers of x-rays became more obvious trained technologists were hired specifically to perform x-rays. Over time fewer doctors were performing x-rays, and hospitals would hire untrained people to learn on the job. Training courses were set up for these people which would teach them the fundamentals of radiography.

The x-ray technologist profession in many ways has advanced to a level that was once unimaginable over 100 years ago. The discovery of the basic x-ray has directed the medical world to seek out other medical imaging techniques such as ultrasounds, PET scans, MRI scans and more.

Today x-ray technologists prepare patients for radiological procedures, this usually requires ensuring patients are in the proper position for the x-rays to be taken, and making certain the patients stay calm. X-ray techs primarily collect and deliver data to physicians, and x-ray technologists are particularly prohibited from discussing the results with the. Skilled technologists may be able to identify problems within images, but are obliged to report their findings to a doctor for further explanation. The majority of an x-ray tech's occupation is operating x-ray machines to capture pictures of the patient's skeleton, soft tissues, and organs. They then develop and pass the pictures on to the doctors, making sure to alert them of any critical problems that may need urgent care.

X-ray technologists work in hospitals, laboratories, clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers. The medical profession ensures x-ray technologists safety by requiring the use of protective equipment. The amount of radiation an x-ray tech is exposed to is monitored, and there are steps set in place to ensure they do not reach dangerous levels. X-ray techs are a vital part of the medical field, and offer a way to find the root of the problem, in the hopes to fix it.