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MRI technologists and technicians are responsible for using diagnostic imaging procedures to create pictures of the human body. These procedures use magnetic field waves to create these images, and must follow certain protocol and procedures in order to obtain a high quality image. MRI technologists typically work with physicians and nurses in a healthcare setting, and are only responsible for producing the images. Interpretation and analyses is conducted by other individuals in the department. All MRI technologists must complete a formal training program in order to receive certification. MRI technologist training programs are readily available at MRI tech schools and healthcare educational institutions.
MRI Technologist Job Duties
Most MRI technologists and technicians are responsible for performing the following job duties:
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Conducting the basic MRI examination
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Setting the proper machine settings
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Monitoring patient safety during testing
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Making sure all MRI equipment is working properly
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Performing diagnostic checks
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Communicating instructions to the patient
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Closely following a physician's instructions
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Lifting and moving different types of equipment
MRI Tech Schools
MRI tech schools train students both the practical skills needed to operate MRI equipment and laboratory tools, and in-depth knowledge in the fields of biology and sciences. Many MRI tech schools offer internships and externships as part of the degree or diploma requirements, as these allow students to gain the practical experience they need to succeed in their career.
Some MRI tech schools help students find a job after graduation, and may also provide financial aid or scholarships, career counseling and other services to make the student's educational career more rewarding.
Choosing the Right MRI Tech School
MRI technician training is readily available at MRI tech schools around the country, but if you want to pave the way to a solid career in this field, the school you go to must meet certain requirements. When reviewing MRI technologist training programs, it is important to determine the following:
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Qualified instructors – make sure the MRI training program consists of a team of highly-qualified instructors that have been with the educational institution for several years. Many MRI tech schools list staff information on their website, so take the time to find out who will be teaching you.
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Accreditation – MRI tech schools must be accredited by national accrediting agencies in order to ensure that your diploma or degree is attractive to future employers. Contact the admissions office to find out which accrediting agencies have approved your prospective school. The American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) is one of the leading accrediting agencies.
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Financial aid – Many MRI tech schools offer financial aid and scholarships for students who need assistance with their tuition. If money is the obstacle to completing your MRI technologist training program, look for schools that can help you achieve your goals.
MRI Technologist Training Programs
MRI technologist training programs and courses provide students with the hands-on skills and knowledge they need to use MRI equipment in a clinical, laboratory or medical setting. Most MRI technologist training programs enable students to do the following:
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Understand the basic principles of magnetic resonance imaging
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Recognize MRI artifacts
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Use knowledge of biological effects when working in the magnetic-resonance environment
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Learn to use MRI equipment to optimize image quality
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Use MR pulse sequences as part of the clinical imaging process
MRI technologist training programs typically consist of didactic training, clinical training and classroom instruction. Some MRI technician training programs can be completed in as little as twelve months, while others will take longer and may be a part of a bachelor's degree in the healthcare field.
Many 12-month MRI technologist training programs permit students to graduate as a qualified Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist without having any college degree or a background in radiology. These programs permit students to pursue ARMRIT national certification, and the graduate can work in a hospital or private MRI facility anywhere in the United States. Fast-track programs typically include clinical internship training with MRI machines on-site, and are approved by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
MRI Technician Training Courses
MRI technician training and technologist programs vary from school to school, but the majority consist of the following courses:
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History of MRI
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Scanning Parameters
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Cross-Sectional Anatomy
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Quality Assurance
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Imaging Features and Options
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Relaxation and Gradients
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Safety and Screening Protocol
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Surface Coils
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Advanced Imaging Concepts
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Computer Simulation
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Archiving Images
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Scan Set-Up Procedures and Protocol
Career Potential After Completing an MRI Technologist Training Program
MRI technologist training programs and MRI technician training programs can be fairly rigorous courses of study, but successful completion offers a number of benefits. According to MedTravelers.com, the average salary for a medical MRI technologist or technician ranges between $50,000 and $55,000 per year, but this range is expected to increase a demand for highly-trained and experienced MRI techs and technologists continues to rise. Individuals can expect to receive an increase in salary with increased training and education, obtaining credentials in a specialty, achieving certification, and acquiring more experience.
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