There are two types of radiographer. Diagnostic radiographers use a range of complex equipment that produces high-quality images to help diagnose an injury or disease. Therapeutic radiographers treat patients who have cancer.
Diagnostic radiographers deal with patients suffering from various injuries and illnesses. They assess their emotional and physical needs, before creating images using methods such as:
- X-rays – looking through tissue to examine bones, cavities and foreign objects
- fluoroscopy – creating live X-ray motion images of the digestive system
- angiography – taking X-rays of blood vessels
- computed tomography (CT) – creating X-ray images of cross-sections of the body
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – to build a 2D or 3D map of different tissue types within the body
- ultrasound – producing images using high frequency sound
- nuclear medicine (NM) – using radioisotopes to show how the body and organs function.
They are usually responsible for interpreting these images.
Therapeutic radiographers plan and deliver programmes of radiation treatment to cancer patients. This typically involves:
- using specialist equipment and computer simulations to plan treatments and dosage levels
- discussing possible treatments and side effects with colleagues
- explaining and agreeing treatments with patients, their relatives and carers
- using ionising radiation (high energy X-rays) to deliver accurate doses of radiation to the tumour
- prescribing drugs to minimise side effects
- assessing and monitoring the patient throughout the course of treatment and follow-up.
All radiographers work closely with radiologists, medical physicists and other healthcare staff. They are also responsible for safety checks on equipment and training student and junior radiographers.
Hours and environment
Most radiographers in the HSE work a basic 37.5 hour week. Diagnostic radiographers often work nights and weekends, as departments are staffed 24 hours a day. Therapeutic radiographers may work more regular hours. Part-time work and job sharing are possible.
Diagnostic radiographers work mainly in hospital imaging departments, accident and emergency, operating theatres and wards. Sometimes they use mobile equipment on wards or in operating theatres. Sonographers (specialists in ultrasound) may also work in doctors’ surgeries or clinics and occasionally at sports clubs to assess injuries.
Therapeutic radiographers work mainly in specially equipped radiotherapy or oncology centres.
The work can be physically demanding as well as emotionally stressful.
Radiographers normally wear a uniform, and protective clothing when carrying out certain procedures.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- A newly qualified radiographer in the HSE earns from €32,000 a year.
- A highly skilled radiographer can earn up to €45,000 a year.
Skills and personal qualities
A radiographer should:
- feel comfortable operating complex, high-tech equipment
- have good IT skills
- be self-confident
- think quickly and make decisions independently
- work accurately, paying close attention to detail
- be able to reassure patients and understand the emotional needs of those who are very ill
- be able to build good relationships with patients – especially therapeutic radiographers who see patients throughout their treatment
- have excellent communication skills to explain procedures and treatments
- work well in a team with other healthcare professionals
- be physically fit and emotionally resilient
- keep up to date with technical developments.
Interests
It is important to be interested in:
- science
- people’s health and well-being.
Entry routes
To become a radiographer you need a recognised first degree or postgraduate qualification.To practice as a Radiographer or Radiation Therapist in Ireland you must be registered with CORU. CORU is the body responsible for the statutory regulation of the health and social care professions. CORU Registration is designed to protect the public by promoting high standards of professional conduct, education training and competence through statutory registration of health and social care professionals.
Useful Links:
Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy
Health Careers- Diagnostic Radiographer
The Society and College of Radiographers