Radiologic Technology

Overview

The Radiologic Technologist (RT) safely uses x-ray equipment to assist the radiologist in examining patients for broken bones and injury, disease, or malfunction of organs. The RT may work in hospitals and clinics, assisting patients into the correct position, adjusting x-ray equipment to settings, making the required exposures, and processing the radiographs. The work may also involve assisting the radiologist in invasive procedures as well as using mobile x-ray equipment in surgery. Duties may include record-keeping, ordering supplies, mixing processing solutions, and maintaining equipment.

Certification
Graduates of the program are eligible to take the national examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and become registered. Registered radiologic technologists are eligible for licensing by the Hawaii Board of Radiologic Technology to practice in Hawaii.

Qualities Needed
Aptitudes and interests that may be helpful include an interest in health care and helping people; compassion and sensitivity, interest in science and technology, problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and depth perception. The ability to follow instructions and work neatly and accurately are equally important.

The RAD Program
The radiologic technology (RAD) program at Kapiolani Community College is a two-year associate in science degree curriculum which combines classroom studies, hands-on exercises in well-equipped laboratories, and intensive supervised clinical practice in affiliated hospitals. Some support courses, including human anatomy and physiology, must be completed prior to admission.