Job Description
A Radiology Student Extern assists licensed imaging technologists in delivering compassionate, high-quality care while completing their formal education. Core responsibilities include preparing patients for exams, transporting individuals to and from imaging areas, managing room turnover, and operating equipment under strict direct supervision.
Core Responsibilities
- Patient Care & Transport: Greet patients, verify two identifiers, explain imaging protocols, and safely transfer patients to and from imaging tables.
- Clinical Assistance: Assist technologists with positioning patients and performing specified imaging procedures (limited to the scope of your current educational level).
- Department Upkeep: Set up exam rooms, ensure equipment is clean, and restock necessary medical supplies to maintain a safe environment.
- Administrative Duties: Review physician orders, verify clinical history, and use radiology information systems (RIS) and PACS to update patient records.
- Safety Protocols: Follow strict radiation safety guidelines, infection control standards, and report any changes in a patient's condition.
Radiology student extern job qualifications generally require active enrollment in an accredited radiologic technology program, a BLS (Basic Life Support) or CPR certification, and completion of foundational clinical coursework. These roles allow students to gain hands-on clinical experience under the direct supervision of registered technologists.
Key qualifications and requirements include:
- Education: Must be in good standing, typically as a 2nd-year or senior student, at an accredited radiology program. Some regional facilities also require an associate or equivalent technical degree.
- Certifications: Current BLS (Basic Life Support) certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.
- State/Local Requirements: Depending on your location (e.g., Tennessee), you may need a student radiographer or Non-Certified Technician (NCT) license issued by state regulatory boards.
- Physical & Environmental Demands: The ability to lift up to \(50\text{ lbs.}\), stand and walk for long periods, and tolerate close patient contact and exposure to hospital environments/body fluids.
- Skills: Basic working knowledge of Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and PACS, paired with excellent communication and patient assessment skills.