CT Technologists utilize computerized tomography (CT) scanners to produce cross-section images of patients’ internal organs and tissues for the diagnosis of medical issues.
Responsibilities
A CT Scan Technologist must be able to accurately interpret a physician’s scanning instructions, administer contrast materials, prepare and operate the CT scan equipment and position the patient to capture the appropriate images. Generally speaking, a CT Technologist should be in good health, because maneuvering equipment and patients who are disabled may pose physical challenges. CT scanners emit radiation, which can be harmful for the Technologist and patient if proper safety procedures are not followed. CT Scan Technologist jobs are most often located in hospitals and diagnostic imaging centers.
Education and Training
A CT Technologist must have completed an accredited educational program related to the radiology field and is registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Often individuals with a general radiology background will seek additional education to enter into a career as a CT scan technologist. Many CT Technologists begin their careers as a radiology tech and undergo advanced training to become a CT Scan Technologist.
Salary Range
$42,710 and $63,010
US Department of Labor
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Outlook Handbook,
2010-2011 Edition
(Middle 50%)
(http://www.bls.gov/oco/oco1002.htm#diag)
$53,931 and $64,698
Salary.Com
(Middle 50%)
(http://www.salary.com/salary/index.asp)
Meet a CT Technologist
What interested you in becoming a Technologist?
I was looking for a career in the medical field that was fairly quick to get into and seemed interesting.
What physical and/or soft skills do you need to have to succeed?
You need the ability to use what you have learned and adapt that knowledge to the situation at hand.
What advice would you give to interested high school students?
Learn how to study to retain information, not just study for a test and forget what you have learned. That skill will come in handy in the medical field.
What interested you in working at Cleveland Clinic?
Cleveland Clinic has earned a reputation that is impeccable. I knew that if I could become a valued team member at Cleveland Clinic, my future outlook in the job market would be limitless.
What excites you about working as a Technologist?
The equipment that we are privileged to work with is at the cutting edge of technology. We are fortunate to be working at a time where medical advances and equipment advances are
occurring at a very rapid pace.
What has been your most gratifying experience as a Technologist?
Having patients request me by name to be the Technologist that does their scan because they feel comfortable with me and confident that they will treated respectfully and get great care.
What career options do you have as a Technologist?
Our options are numerous and growing rapidly with time. Your goals could be set to Lead Technologist, Department Manager, Quality Control and Research. Your access to these job positions is not limited to Cleveland; you could go anywhere in the country with our license.
