Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
What is a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist?
A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in operating MRI machines to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within the body. These images are crucial for diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. MRI technologists work closely with radiologists and other healthcare providers to ensure that the imaging process is conducted safely and effectively. They are responsible for preparing patients for MRI procedures, explaining the process to alleviate any concerns, and ensuring that they are comfortable throughout the imaging process. MRI technologists operate complex machinery and must have a strong understanding of anatomy, medical imaging techniques, and safety protocols to minimize exposure to magnetic fields and other risks associated with the procedure. In addition to technical expertise, MRI technologists must also exhibit strong communication and interpersonal skills, as they interact with patients who may be anxious or in discomfort. The role can involve working in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and clinics. Overall, MRI technologists play a vital role in the healthcare system by providing essential diagnostic information that guides patient care.
Tasks
- Review physicians' orders to confirm prescribed exams.
- Conduct screening interviews of patients to identify contraindications, such as ferrous objects, pregnancy, prosthetic heart valves, cardiac pacemakers, or tattoos.
- Select appropriate imaging techniques or coils to produce required images.
- Operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners.
- Provide headphones or earplugs to patients to improve comfort and reduce unpleasant noise.
Technology Skills
- Medical software
- Spreadsheet software
- Office suite software
- Word processing software
- Internet browser software
Tools Used
- Medical magnetic resonance imaging MRI quality assurance or calibration phantoms or devices
- Medical magnetic resonance imaging MRI scanners
- Blood pressure cuff kits
- Body plethysmographs
- Intravenous infusion pumps for general use
Knowledge
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Skills
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Associate's degree
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Assisting and Caring for Others
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
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Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Collect medical information from patients, family members, or other medical professionals.
- Follow protocols or regulations for healthcare activities.
- Review technical documents to plan work.
- Review work orders or schedules to determine operations or procedures.
- Create advanced digital images of patients using computer imaging systems.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$61470.0 - $112420.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.