This series represents a variety of radiology topics that apply to health care professionals working in the industry. Certificants will learn about the types of professionals that take x-rays, different medical imaging modalities and what anatomical structures can be viewed with each modality as well as ways to protect themselves and the patient against excessive radiation. To learn more about each specific offering, read the individual descriptions for each module.

NHA CERTIFICATE HOLDERS: LOG IN TO ACCESS THE VIDEO PRESENTATION

Who’s Taking that X-ray? The Roles of the Limited X-ray Machine Operator (LXMO) and Radiologic Technologist (RT)

Do you know the difference between a professional that has a limited x-ray machine operator license versus one that has a radiologic technologist license?  Do you know if you are a good candidate for acquiring either of these licenses based on your medical training and current job?  This CE offering will provide these details as well as discuss the process of taking x-rays and the equipment that is used in creating the image.  You will learn about how to improve patient experience when performing x-rays as well as how to protect both you and your patients from harmful radiation. 

Advanced Imaging Modalities

Do you have a good understanding of the everyday x-ray and advanced imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs? This module discusses the basics of these advanced medical imaging modalities including how the image is created and what structures can be viewed through each type of study.  Modalities covered included: computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, interventional radiography, sonography, and radiation therapy.

Radiation Protection and Safety

Many healthcare professionals will at some point be exposed to radiation during procedures involving medical imaging. Some of these professionals have many misconceptions about radiation and the effects of radiation. This module will explore; what radiation is, how it effects the human body, and how to protect against radiation effects.

Meet the Authors/Presenters

Mandy Sedden, MSRS, RT(R), Assistant Professor of Radiologic Sciences, Midwestern State University

Mandy Sedden, MSRS, RT(R), is an Assistant Professor for Midwestern State University’s Shimadzu School of Radiologic Sciences.  She has been a radiologic technologist for 18 years and an educator for 6 years. Ms. Sedden resides in Wichta Falls, Texas.

Rodney Fisher, MSRS, RT(R)(N)(CT)(BD), CNMT, Assistant Professor of Radiologic Sciences, Midwestern State University

Rodney Fisher, MSRS, RT(R)(N)(CT)(BD), CNMT is an Assistant Professor for Midwestern State University’s Shimadzu School of Radiologic Sciences.  He has been a radiologic technologist for 10 years and has taught for 7 years. He currently serves on the board of directors for the National Accreditation Board of Nuclear Medicine and is the nuclear medicine vice chair for the American Society of Radiologic Technology.

Below, Sedden & Fisher provides insights and what you can expect to gain from the experience.

What do you hope certificants will gain from engaging in this series?

We hope they learn the difference between LXMO and registered radiologic technologists. Along with learning about the basics of radiation protections and biology.  We are also hopeful that the reader will gain a better understanding of advanced medical imaging.

Describe the term, “Limited Scope Radiology” and list health care workers that may benefit from obtaining a license/registration in this specialty area.

A Limited Scope radiology license allows the health care worker to take basic images in the areas they have been licensed, such as the chest, extremities, skull/sinus, spine and/or podiatry. (This license varies by state). This limited radiology license may be ideal for health care workers such as medical assistants and nurses that work in ambulatory health care centers with x-ray capabilities.        

What are some tips that you have for health care workers that take x-rays?

Be detail oriented. Remember your scope of practice. And practice ALARA always.

What are some essential soft skills that health care workers should possess that take x-rays?

An empathy for their patients and a desire to continue their education as new technologies become available.

LOG IN TO ACCESS THE VIDEO PRESENTATION >>

NHA CERTIFICATE HOLDERS: LOG IN TO ACCESS THE VIDEO PRESENTATION >>

Before completing NHA CE, we recommend checking the rules and regulations of the licensing or regulatory agency for your state, in case there are different requirements.