k. Assisting with Pediatric Radiography. A child has just come from the lab
kicking and screaming because he has been stuck with a needle. He wiggles so much
during the x-ray that you have to take the same x-ray again. But, before you can do
that, you have to calm down the child. You also have to deal tactfully but firmly with the
fretful parents and possibly get them to leave the room. It takes all the competence,
patience, and ingenuity you can muster to deal effectively with young patients and their
parents.
I. Assisting with Respiratory Procedures. Respiratory procedures are not
limited to the lungs. The bronchogram, an x-ray of the bronchial tubes, is one of several
special respiratory procedures used to study the bronchial tree. However, this
procedure is becoming less common as computerized axial tomography and magnetic
resonance imaging technology begin to replace bronchograms. Computerized axial
tomography is the preferred procedure because it is not invasive.
m. Cleaning Intensifying Screens. You may be cleaning intensifying screens
as early as Phase II training, or as part of on-the-job training. Screens have to be
cleaned to meet regulatory requirements. Though it may seem like a housekeeping
chore, the proper care of the intensifying screen is of considerable importance in terms
of protecting the patient from needless repeat radiographs. For, if the intensifying
screen is dirty or scratched, the radiograph may have an artifact obscuring an important
area of the anatomy. Consequently, failure to properly clean the screen may leave the
x-ray technologist no other alternative but to retake the radiograph, thus exposing the
patient to unnecessary additional radiation.
n. Performing Manual and Automatic Processing Procedures. This task
involves taking film out of the cassette and putting it into the automatic processor
through the feeding tray. Only capable radiographers can work in the darkroom
because of the high potential for mishaps. The Army is negotiating to obtain automatic
processing equipment for field use. Since some field units still use the manual
procedure, you should be familiar with manual processing, so that you will be prepared,
should you be assigned to a field unit that still uses these procedures.
o. Applying Radiation and Electrical Protective Measures. The voltages that
are required for the production of ionizing radiation require high-tension transformers
and other electrical components. If this equipment is not properly grounded and safety
measures are not followed, potentially severe injury or death could occur. If proper
radiation safety practices are not followed, excessive and unnecessary exposure to
ionizing radiation could also occur. An awareness of these inherent dangers can
provide the impetus for following the required protective measures more diligently.
p. Performing Routine Patient Administration. When you are assigned to the
front desk, you will be charged with greeting patients, receiving and processing
requisitions, and ensuring proper recording and entering of data.
MD0067
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