Overview of Interventional Radiology Program
Higher Education Articles July 5, 2014The interventional radiology program may be quite versatile in nature depending on the institution. Certification is most often required to maintain a standard of excellence in the field through continued education and remaining abreast of new techniques and opportunities for advancement.
Interventional Radiology in College
Two-year degree programs with an Associates of Applied Science degree would be preferred programs because of the increase in marketability for the professional. These programs offer extensive training in communication and archiving, as well as radiographic techniques. Certification programs are still available; however, students should think long term about their ability to be hired and how the market will affect this somewhat fast track system of education.
Prescreening requirements are often reviewed with the applicants, and seeking a counselor’s advice is prudent. Background checks, drug screening, and immunization assessment are all pertinent because of direct contact with patients and delicate information and equipment.
Young women that may be expecting babies or are trying to get pregnant should also weigh the risks involved with constant exposure to x-ray type machines. This can be very hazardous to the fetus, and women going into this profession should be well informed of the risks.
Interventional Radiology Duties
The candidate for the radiological imaging program will be required to:
•Operate mobile and fixed equipment in a variety of settings.
•Communicate with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
•Process and archive films and images.
•Keep confidentiality of patients.
•Demonstrate safe and respectful methods of positioning and draping of the patients.
Clear goals of the program and learning outcomes include:
•Demonstration of clinical competence.
•Accomplishment of radiological exams.
•Completion of clinical competency checklist.
•Demonstration of professionalism.
•Demonstration of critical thinking.
Course descriptions include intense studies of anatomy and physiology, radiographic pathology, radiographic protective gear, basic procedures, equipment study, and communication avenues. Some college algebra, creative writing techniques, history of certain specialties, and speech may also be required.
There should be absolute surety that the technician knows the full details of his or her occupation and how to convey this information to other professionals. There may be other courses for more intense programs that involve more specialized techniques. Bone densitometry, interventional cardio radiology, CAT scans, PET scans, sonogram, and other diagnostic procedures will require hands-on clinical training for each individual at different rates of speed.
Interventional Radiology Program Tips
In the area of clear communication, the radiographer will know how much, if any, information to give the patient during and/or after the test is completed. The patient must be made to feel at ease and comfortable.
There needs to be clear dialogue with the physician if need be about complications and findings or potential problems with any particular patient. Relaying information to coworkers on an as-needed basis will be very important. Filing and archiving information is also a means of communicating the findings with proper sources.
The JRCERT (Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology) collects data provided by accredited radiology technology programs. They monitor individual completion of program rates, exam pass rates, and job placement for graduates. Programs are required to publish the most current program effectiveness data on the program’s web page. This gives the candidates an opportunity to view unbiased information about all programs and their success rates.
