The role of CT technologists has become increasingly important due to the heavy reliance on sophisticated medical imaging for diagnostics and treatments. But what does this position actually comprise? Which skills and qualifications are essential for achieving success in this role? What does a typical day of CT technologist looks like?
This comprehensive guide is designed for those intent on understanding the role of CT technologist or master this important position in the healthcare system.
Whether you are looking to learn more about the CT technologist job description or the skills needed as well as possibilities of career progression, this guide has you covered.
Also read: Medical Laboratory Scientist Job Description
What Is A CT Technologist?
CT Technologists are computed tomography specialists also known as CT scan Technologists. CT Technologists are integral members of the diagnostic imaging team, responsible for the operation of computed tomography (CT) machines.
CT machines take X-ray images from multiple angles of the body parts of interest to diagnose a variety of medical problems and diseases that need treatment.
In addition to advanced imaging skills, CT technologists also make sure that their patients’ needs are met during the imaging process.
For example, they need to control sophisticated imaging devices and ensure that patients’ experiencers are scanned are pleasant and non-threatening.
Where Do CT Technologists Work?
CT technologists typically work in:
- Hospitals (both large institutions and small community settings)
- Diagnostic imaging centers
- Outpatient clinics
- Emergency care facilities
Their work environments are fast-paced and demanding, requiring attention to detail and the ability to work well under pressure.
Key Responsibilities of a CT Technologist
CT Technologist’s responsibilities extend far beyond pressing the scan button on the scanner. It includes CT technician’s technological skills, communication with the patient, and strict compliance with safety protocols.
Below are the duties and responsibilities of a CT Technologist
1. Readying Patients for CT Scans
One responsibility is making sure the patient is as ready and comfortable as possible. This involves:
- Describing the procedure step-by-step and answering all questions.
- Reviewing the patient’s medical history and looking for any contraindications, such as allergies to contrast dyes.
- Aiding the patient in getting comfortable on the scanning table in the ideal position for the images.
2. Operating the CT equipment
CT Technologist’s have an in-depth knowledge of the functionality and working of the CT machines. Responsibilities include:
- Adjusting the imaging machine for the region of the body that is going to be scanned.
- Watching the scan while it is in progress, assuring quality of the images being produced.
3. Administering Contrast Materials
The images from many CT scans can be enhanced through the use of contrast agents. A CT technologist is often responsible for:
- Administering IV injections of contrast materials under the supervision of a physician.
- Observing patients for any negative side effects.
4. Producing Clear Diagnostic Images
CT Technologist’s responsibility is to ensure that the images are clear enough as well as detailed enough for the physicians to make the accurate diagnosis. This includes:
- Adjusting equipment settings to capture the best images.
- Reviewing scans to confirm quality and identifying any issues that may require a rescan.
5. Following Safety and Sterilization Protocols
To limit the risks that come with radiation exposure, CT technologists must comply with safety procedures that mitigate these risks to themselves and patients, including:
- Wearing lead aprons and shields when needed.
- Following dosimetry procedures for monitoring exposure to radiation.
- Keeping sterile environments, especially for injection purposes.
6. Working with Healthcare Teams
In providing comprehensive patient care, CT technologists collaborate with radiologists, physicians, and other professionals. This may include:
- Relaying findings or particular patient issues to the radiologist.
- Conducting rescheduling activities and coordinating urgent imaging orders.
Skills and Qualifications Needed for a CT Technologist
Duties of this nature involve both technical and non-technical competencies and skills, as well as required professional credentials.
Educational Requirements
To become a CT technologist, you’ll first need to complete formal training in radiologic technology. This typically involves:
- An Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Radiologic Technology or a similar field.
- Passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.
Certification and Licensing
Many employers require CT technologists to hold additional certifications, such as:
- ARRT Advanced Certification in Computed Tomography (CT). (If you live in United State of Ameroca)
- State licensure (requirements vary by state, so check local guidelines).
Essential Skills
Some other equally important skills include:
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of CT equipment and technology used in imaging.Â
- Detail oriented: Requires precision in placing patients and interpreting scans.
- Interpersonal Skills: Interacting with the patients, particularly the distressed or hurt.
- Physical endurance: Ability to carry the patients and being on feet for a length of time.
- Analytical skills: Follow up fix the problem with the equipment or assumed calibration of the scan.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a CT Technologist?
The daily tasks of a CT technologist may change with the employer or industry, but below is an example of a shift’s workflow. It includes different aspects of patient interaction, both technical and administrative:
- Reviewing the imaging calendar and preparing the computed tomography (CT) machine for the first patient scan of the day.
- Confirming the identity of the patient and checking their logs to ensure the right imaging processes are followed.
- Carrying out various scans all through the day that required changing the position of the patients as well as adjusting the scanning settings in between scans as needed.
- Conferencing with radiologists and offering diagnostic input about provided information.
- Cleaning all units afterwards and going through notes for clarifications to complete the shift.
Career Outlook and Opportunities for Growth
In Nigeria, the radiography imaging field is currently witnessing a great increase in demand for experts able to carry out diagnostic imaging procedures.
The demand is as a result of increased occurrence of diseases that need medical imaging for identification and therapeutic procedures.
Statistics on the increased demand for radiographers in the healthcare sector
- Recent surveys indicate that there is an alarming gap of unqualified radiographers in Nigeria.
- Public hospitals and private health clinics can hardly cope with the ever increasing demand for radiography services in the country.
- Every year the number of patients needing imaging studies like X-rays, CT, MR, and I scans increases.
- In the coming years, the need of radiographers in Nigeria is estimated to grow tremendously.
The need for new CT technologists continues to increase worldwide. The U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics indicate that the practice of employment for all radiologic and MRI technologist at the current rate is supposed to increase by six percent between 2021 and 2031, partially due to greater innovation in imaging techniques as well as an aged population.
Salary Expectations for CT Technologist
The average salary of a CT Technologist working in Nigeria is 3,529,600 NGN per year according to data from Worldsalaries, while the average annual salary for a CT technologist in the U.S. ranges from $60,000 to $80,000, with higher earnings in specialized healthcare facilities or urban areas.
Opportunities for Advancement
Many CT technologists choose to:
- Pursue supervisory or managerial roles in radiology departments.
- Obtain additional certifications to specialize in other imaging modalities like MRI or PET scans.
- Transition to teaching or training roles in radiologic technology programs.
Concluding Thoughts on CT Technologist Job Description
CT specialists are vital in the field of medicine. Their imaging work helps doctors to diagnose the patient accurately and in some cases, life threatening situations. They utilize their technical skills and with compassion towards patients to help improve health outcomes every day.
The job market is constantly looking for professionals to fill these positions and becoming a CT technologist is a great option to consider if you are looking forward to pursue healthcare career.