X-ray Technician Risks
An X-ray technician operates medical x-ray machines in hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices and dental facilities. The technician guides the patient on where and how to position his body, puts the x-ray machine in place and takes the x-ray. Since x-ray machines give off radiation, it is important for the x-ray technician to understand the risks involved in the job and to take the necessary precautions to safeguard against unnecessary radiation and other hazards.
Radiation
One of the main risks of being an x-ray technician is the exposure to unnecessary and possibly dangerous levels of radiation. The technician must learn the proper machine settings and exposure limits for radiation and know how to adjust the machine. He should always know when the machine is on. When an x-ray is being taken, the technician must be positioned behind a protective wall or wearing a shielded apron. The technician should also wear a badge that shows how much radiation exposure she's had.
Exposure to Blood
Patients undergoing x-rays may be injured or in the middle of medical procedures that could expose the x-ray technician to blood and other bodily fluids. The technician should always wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, mask and gown when necessary.
Infection
The x-ray technician can potentially contract infections borne by patients. The technician should wash and sterilize equipment every time it is used and practice frequent hand washing.
Injury
X-ray technicians are required to position the patient and the equipment, both of which can be heavy. The technician must be careful not to incur injuries by not overextending her reach or trying to lift or assist a patient who is bigger than she can help comfortably. She should get help when necessary and lift with a straight back and slightly bent knees in order to avoid back injury.
Chemicals
Developing the x-rays requires the use of hazardous chemicals. The technician should read the directions for the chemicals carefully and know what to do in case of a spill or accident for each chemical. Always wear splash goggles and gloves when working with the chemicals.
Patients
A patient who is in pain or under partial sedation could react unexpectedly to the x-ray technician's attempts to position the body or help in other ways. The technician should remain alert to avoid injury and know when to ask for assistance.
Radiation
One of the main risks of being an x-ray technician is the exposure to unnecessary and possibly dangerous levels of radiation. The technician must learn the proper machine settings and exposure limits for radiation and know how to adjust the machine. He should always know when the machine is on. When an x-ray is being taken, the technician must be positioned behind a protective wall or wearing a shielded apron. The technician should also wear a badge that shows how much radiation exposure she's had.
Exposure to Blood
Patients undergoing x-rays may be injured or in the middle of medical procedures that could expose the x-ray technician to blood and other bodily fluids. The technician should always wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, mask and gown when necessary.
Infection
The x-ray technician can potentially contract infections borne by patients. The technician should wash and sterilize equipment every time it is used and practice frequent hand washing.
Injury
X-ray technicians are required to position the patient and the equipment, both of which can be heavy. The technician must be careful not to incur injuries by not overextending her reach or trying to lift or assist a patient who is bigger than she can help comfortably. She should get help when necessary and lift with a straight back and slightly bent knees in order to avoid back injury.
Chemicals
Developing the x-rays requires the use of hazardous chemicals. The technician should read the directions for the chemicals carefully and know what to do in case of a spill or accident for each chemical. Always wear splash goggles and gloves when working with the chemicals.
Patients
A patient who is in pain or under partial sedation could react unexpectedly to the x-ray technician's attempts to position the body or help in other ways. The technician should remain alert to avoid injury and know when to ask for assistance.
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