X-ray repair technicians troubleshoot X-ray devices when they are not working properly, fix them and maintain them to operate efficiently. Their training includes understanding how the equipment works, as well as how to test X-ray machines using voltmeters, laboratory testing tools, how to read measurements with instrumentation, and how to interpret and analyze graph results. X-ray repair technicians also may install equipment into hospitals and offices. There are several options to pursue X-ray repair technician training.
Identification
X-ray technicians, also known as radiology technicians or radiographers, not only operate X-ray equipment, but also deal with patients in explaining procedures and results. X-ray technicians may also prepare patients by positioning them correctly for the X-ray, and they may repair and maintain equipment as well. X-ray repair technicians deal primarily with repairing and installing X-ray equipment as a biomedical equipment technician (BMET). A BMET also is trained in repairing other medical equipment as well. Training for X-ray repair technicians may involve learning how to repair X-ray machines only, or may involve learning how to repair other medical equipment in addition to X-ray machines as a BMET.
Topics
Topics include anatomy and physiology, radiation protection, medical terminology, radiobiology, pathology, radiation physics, patient care, biology, medical ethics, principles of imaging, how to operate an X-ray device, and how to repair and maintain X-ray equipment, how to use voltmeters, how to interpret results on graphs, how to analyze problems and readings in instrumentation, and how to troubleshoot common malfunctions.
Time Frame
It can take as little as one year to become an X-ray technician, or if pursuing an associate degree, it normally takes two years as a full-time student. If pursuing a bachelor's degree, it can take four years to complete.
Providers
Training programs are provided by engineering and technical schools, or two-year community colleges and four-year universities. You can earn an associates degree or a bachelor's of science in biomedical equipment engineering technology, which covers not only X-ray repair, but a wide variety of medical equipment, including body scanners, heart monitors, pacemakers and ventilators.
Certification
A certified biomedical equipment technician is someone who has earned a degree to repair X-rays and other medical equipment. In addition, you can earn additional certification as a certified radiology equipment specialist and as a certified laboratory equipment specialist. These are additional certifications to advance your X-ray repair training and credentials.