Radiologic Technology
Associate of Science Degree

Since the completion of the Associate of Science Degree in Radiologic Technology signifies that the holder is eligible to sit for the A.R.R.T. certification board examination and is prepared for entry into the profession of Radiologic Technology, it follows that graduates must have the knowledge and skills to function in a broad variety of clinical situations.

The following information allows the student to make an informed decision in their educational career by providing a breakdown of student expectations within the program. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply to the program, however, it is the student's responsibility to notify administration of the college if there are any reasons why he/she cannot adequately meet the expectations described below.

1. Problem solving: the culminating activity in the preparation of a radiographer is clinical reasoning. Therefore, a student must be able to make correct observation, and have the skills of measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis, and synthesis.
2. Judgment: the student will be expected to demonstrate judgment in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings, which illustrates an ability to make mature, sensitive, effective and ethical decisions in the following areas: Relationships with supervisors, peers, and patients Professional behavior The effectiveness of intervention strategies An understanding of the rationale and justification of his/her performance
3. Communication:
   
   1. Written Communication: the student must be able to assimilate information from written sources (i.e., texts, journals, medical/school records, etc.), and attain, comprehend, retain, and utilize new information presented in written formats. The profession calls not only for the initial learning of a new body of knowledge, but also the continual updating of knowledge from current sources. Students are required to utilize information from written sources and must be able to produce appropriate written documentation.
   2. Verbal and Nonverbal Communication: the student must be able to produce the spoken word and elicit information from patients, supervisors, and peers with skills in describing factual information, including subtle cues of mood and temperament. Communication must be accurate, sensitive, and efficient within all facets of healthcare. Response time to emergencies/crisis situations as well as routine communication must be appropriate.
4. Sensorimotor: the student must have gross motor, fine motor, and equilibrium functions reasonably required to carry out radiographic examinations. Task requirements range from transferring a child or adult from a wheelchair to a radiographic table, to the fine motor manipulation required to draw up emergency medication. Quick reactions are necessary not only for safety, but for one to respond efficiently in most clinical situations. The student must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. Observation necessitates the functional use of the visual, auditory, and tactile senses. The student can expect to lift and manipulate patients and radiographic equipment up to 50 lbs or more.
5. Attitude: the student is expected to exhibit professional behavior and attitudes during his/her participation in classroom and clinical situations. This includes, but is not limited to, appropriate language, flexibility toward change, and acceptance of responsibility for one's own conduct. The student is expected to exhibit a positive attitude toward patients, peers, and supervisors.
6. Observation: the student will be required to use instruments requiring visual acuity. These devices include, but are not limited to, radiographic equipment, health assessment tools and devices (i.e., blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, etc.). The student will be required to make observations and evaluations, while observing the results of treatment and reactions.
7. It is the responsibility of the student to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills and abilities required of  this chosen program/profession. In addition to the technical standards as described above, please review the information regarding radiologic technology at the O*NET website at http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-2034.00. 

Hospital/clinic observation in a radiology department is strongly recommended by the NMC Radiologic Technology Program for admission. This is your opportunity to weigh your interest in the field and to learn more about the Radiologic Technology profession. Radiographers [R.T.(R)], who are providing students the opportunity for this experience will need to verify your participation in writing completing the enclosed observation form. Four hours of observation are strongly recommended. It is YOUR responsibility to arrange this observation with one of the clinical sites listed below.

• Students need to complete a diagnostic radiology experience. Observation in Computed Tomography, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy, or Sonography will not be accepted.
• Students should call ahead to the hospital/clinic of their choice to arrange an appointment for observation. Morning hours are prime hours for observation (8:00a.m.-12:00p.m.).
• Students should expect that it may be one to two weeks before the observation can be scheduled with the facility. Therefore, students are highly encouraged to complete this process as soon as possible.
• Students are expected to dress professionally since they are completing this process as a representative of Nebraska Methodist College. When completing clinical hours of observation, students need to be mindful of the following:
  • No jeans, low rise pants or low cut/midriff tops
  • Wear low heeled, closed toe, non-slip comfortable shoes and dress pants.
  • No perfume (potential allergen)
  • Cosmetics and jewelry in moderation
• Students should notify the hospital/clinic in the event of a late arrival or need to cancel. Canceling of a scheduled observation should be avoided if at all possible.
• Students should be prepared to ask questions during their clinical observation. If the radiographer is involved in a procedure, please hold questions until after the exam is completed. This will help to minimize any disruption of the radiographic procedure.
• Students are expected to follow any policies or directions given by hospital/clinic personnel without question. In the event a student is asked to leave a procedure for patient privacy, the student will be directed to a designated waiting area until the exam is completed. Students must remember the patient is always the radiographer’s first responsibility.
• Students must observe patient confidentiality at all times. Most hospitals/clinics will request that students sign a confidentiality form prior to beginning the clinical observation. Cell phones are not allowed during the observation.
• Students must keep interactions related to the scope of Radiologic Technology during their observation. Students are encouraged to inform the radiographer immediately if there are any problems or concerns while participating in this clinical observation.

Download the Radiologic Technology Observation Log Sheet