| An x-ray technician's primary job function is to | | | | within safe limits. |
| operate machines that emit radiation for the purpose | | | | Whether the machines being used are of the fixed |
| of making photographs that penetrate deep into the | | | | type or portable, because they are used in clinical or |
| body. The diagnostic information provided by them is | | | | surgical settings, it is important to always use |
| valuable and saves many lives. However, there is | | | | universal precautions. X-ray equipment is exposed to |
| more to the job than putting the machine into place | | | | a variety of patients that may or may not have |
| and pushing the activation button. X-rays can be | | | | open wounds, flowing blood or other bodily fluids that |
| extremely hazardous if used too many times or for | | | | can easily come into contact with the equipment. To |
| too long. People working in this field must be | | | | avoid communicable diseases, a technician should |
| prepared for these hazards at all times. | | | | wear gloves at all times. In some instances it may |
| It is extremely important to learn about each setting | | | | also be necessary to wear a gown, goggles or a |
| on the devices. Since they emit radiation, the | | | | mask, as well. Equipment must be cleaned and |
| workers must also be aware of the acceptable limits | | | | sterilized after each patient to control the spread of |
| for exposure to that radiation. This means that a | | | | infection to the technician, other patients, and other |
| good x-ray technician will always know when the | | | | health care professionals. |
| machine is active and x-rays are being emitted from | | | | X-ray equipment is large and bulky. Machine use not |
| the tube. | | | | only requires movement of the aligning arm, but |
| Another important process needed to ensure safety | | | | sometimes the entire machine. Ergonomic postures |
| is to make sure that safety equipment and radiation | | | | and techniques should always be used when moving |
| protection is in proper working condition. This includes | | | | the machines. Never overextend the body or |
| shielding, warning lights, timers, and any other safety | | | | overreach as these may cause personal injury. Also |
| device that is either part of the machine or meant to | | | | be aware that many patients are in severe pain and |
| be used with it. If a lead apron is not available, then it | | | | may act suddenly or irrationally. It is always beneficial |
| is important for the technician to stand behind a wall | | | | to stay alert at all times. Following these guidelines will |
| or around a corner. An electronic personal dosimeter | | | | keep an x-ray technician safe for the length of his or |
| should also be used periodically to monitor radiation | | | | her career. |
| exposure, ensuring that the technician is always | | | | |