5 Tips For Army X-Ray Tech Mos

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The field of radiology is a vital part of the healthcare system, and for those serving in the Army, becoming an X-Ray Tech (MOS 68X) can be a rewarding and challenging career path. As an X-Ray Tech, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining X-ray equipment, taking X-rays of patients, and assisting radiologists with diagnostic procedures. If you're considering a career as an Army X-Ray Tech, here are five tips to help you succeed.

Tip 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To become an Army X-Ray Tech, you must meet certain basic requirements. These include being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and scoring a minimum of 107 on the General Technical (GT) portion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. You must also be able to obtain a secret security clearance and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Education and Training

In addition to meeting the basic requirements, you will also need to complete the Army's X-Ray Tech training program. This program is approximately 52 weeks long and covers topics such as patient assessment, X-ray positioning, and radiographic techniques.

Tip 2: Develop Your Skills and Knowledge

As an X-Ray Tech, you will need to have a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and radiographic techniques. You should also be familiar with X-ray equipment and be able to operate it safely and effectively. To develop your skills and knowledge, you can take advantage of the Army's training programs and continuing education opportunities.

Continuing Education

The Army offers a variety of continuing education opportunities for X-Ray Techs, including certification programs and specialized training in areas such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies and advance your career.

Tip 3: Stay Organized and Manage Your Time Effectively

As an X-Ray Tech, you will be responsible for managing your time effectively and staying organized. This will involve prioritizing tasks, managing patient flow, and maintaining accurate records. To stay organized, you can use tools such as calendars, to-do lists, and patient management software.

Prioritizing Tasks

To prioritize tasks effectively, you should focus on the most critical tasks first and delegate tasks to others when possible. You should also be flexible and able to adapt to changing circumstances, such as unexpected patient arrivals or equipment malfunctions.

Tip 4: Communicate Effectively with Patients and Healthcare Teams

As an X-Ray Tech, you will need to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare teams. This will involve explaining procedures to patients, answering questions, and providing reassurance. You should also be able to communicate effectively with radiologists and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

Active Listening

To communicate effectively, you should practice active listening, which involves paying attention to what patients and healthcare teams are saying, asking questions to clarify information, and responding in a clear and concise manner.

Tip 5: Stay Current with Advances in Technology and Techniques

The field of radiology is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques being developed all the time. To stay current, you should attend conferences and workshops, read industry publications, and participate in online forums and discussions.

Industry Publications

Some industry publications that you may find useful include the Journal of the American College of Radiology, the American Journal of Roentgenology, and Radiology. These publications provide the latest information on advances in technology and techniques, as well as best practices and research findings.

By following these tips, you can succeed as an Army X-Ray Tech and have a rewarding and challenging career in the field of radiology. Remember to stay organized, communicate effectively, and stay current with advances in technology and techniques.