To be an MRI technician, you need to pass either the ARMRIT or ARRT certification exam. But what do you really need to be a good MRI tech? Aside from getting the required education and training from MRI programs, you also need to possess the right skills and mindset.
To excel in your new role as an MRI tech, you must strive for excellence. You must stand out from the crowd. Most MRI techs get the same level of education. But you’ll be one step ahead of others if you choose to develop more skills while gaining experience in the field.
But then, the first step is still to excel in your MRI programs and courses. That’s how you become competent and knowledgeable in your role. The next step is to learn all the other important qualities to make you a true professional in the job.
Qualities Needed to Enroll in MRI Programs
As an MRI technician, you need above-average interpersonal skills. One of the aspects of this job is interacting and communicating with patients. A lot of your patients will get an MRI scan for the first time. It’s understandable why they may be scare or anxious about the whole thing.
A good MRI technician won’t just lead the patient to the scanner table and take a picture of their organs. They’ll first appease their patient and explain what’s about to happen. They will make sure that the patient remains calm throughout the procedure. This is important to get the high-quality scan needed. Of course, you’ll also have to ask about their medical history before doing anything.
As an MRI technologist, you should be very detail-oriented. Keep in mind that the reason why doctors request an MRI is that they suspect something wrong inside their patient. Be sure to follow the instructions of the doctor in order to help formulate an accurate diagnosis. Otherwise, you might be taking scans that are not going to be useful at all.
Every MRI technician should have a clear understanding of how an MRI scanner works. They should be adept at operating them. These procedures are taught at MRI tech schools and during clinical training. MRI techs should use the right amount of chemicals to obtain the right contrast for the scan. They should also consider the patient’s disease while performing these calculations.
Also, MRI tech should be physically fit. This job is a full-time role and you’ll spend most of your time moving. From time to time, you’ll also help lift and position your patients, especially the ones suffering from disabilities. If you aren’t physically fit, then this job will be very taxing for you. Be sure to should work on your stamina level. Ensure that your physical wellbeing is in its best form while training to become an MRI tech.
There’s more to learn to become an outstanding MRI technician on top of getting MRI programs and courses. While MRI courses are very important, there are other elements to this job such as being detail-oriented, having strong interpersonal skills, and being physically fit that will lead you to success.
