CLASS SPECIFICATION

X-RAY TECHNICIAN

DEFINITION OF CLASS:
This is technical, x ray work involving the taking and processing of radiographs of individuals in accordance with accepted medical standards, methods, guidelines, and procedures. Contacts include patients and their families, health clinics, nursing home patients, hospitals, prisoners, clinic staff members, and outside physicians for the purpose of obtaining background information on the patient's medical history and/or condition, and providing information to ensure that the x ray process moves efficiently. The employee provides immediate and short-term public service and assistance on a daily, recurring basis to many people.
The employee in this class is independently responsible for applying knowledge, skills and ability necessary to perform all aspects of x ray technician work. A significant proportion of the x-rays being taken are for the screening of tuberculosis. The impact of properly performed work assists in the diagnosis, treatment and control of contagious diseases and other physical conditions which might otherwise go undetected. Work is reviewed by clinic physicians for quality of films and adherence to established policies and procedures. The complexity of the work involves applying established procedural guidelines and techniques required to accomplish the work and adherence to operational procedures and safety regulations in the use of x-ray equipment. Work is performed under the general supervision of a higher level supervisor in an x ray laboratory and dark room in a health clinic environment which imposes some discomfort and unpleasantness, e.g., exposure to chemicals and noxious fumes and exposure to infection and contagious disease. Work requires employees to stand for long periods of time and lift objects weighing up to 20 pounds. Employee may be required to hold patient in position during the x ray process which requires the wearing of protective clothing.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: (Illustrative Only)
Takes chest, lumbar spine and special x rays requested by clinic and private physicians according to standard procedures.
Develops x rays and evaluates them for both technical quality and readable clarity before combining them with medical records for review by radiologist.
Establishes and maintains a comprehensive x ray file and catalog system, discarding old films and archiving films of active tuberculosis cases.
Prepares and maintains x ray equipment to ensure it is in proper working order and reports equipment malfunctions to the proper authority.
Cleans x ray equipment including film processor, radiographic screens and cassettes.
Interviews patients for previous history of tuberculosis.
Compiles and records statistical data on x-ray results and treatments.
Maintains, monitors and orders x ray supplies.
Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience: None.
Education: Completion of high school or High School Certificate of completion recognized in the State of Maryland and a medical radiation technology program approved by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation of the American Medical Association.
Equivalency: None.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of operating procedures, standard practices and materials associated with x-ray technology, including positioning patients properly for the exposure, adjusting equipment, and processing films.
Knowledge of safety precautions and regulations as it relates to patients and other personnel in the x-ray area.
Ability to evaluate films for technical quality and readable clarity.
Ability to operate and maintain x ray equipment in proper working condition, reporting equipment malfunctions to the proper authority.
Ability to place patients in proper positions for x-rays.
Ability to create and maintain extensive x ray files.
Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift objects weighing up to 20 pounds.
Ability to deal patiently, courteously and tactfully with people.

LICENSE:
Licensed as a certified Medical Radiation Technologist as outlined by the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance.
Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license when required for job related duties.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD:
Individuals appointed or promoted to a position in this class will be required to serve a probationary period of six months. Performance will be carefully evaluated during the probationary period. Continuation in this class will be contingent upon successful completion of the probationary period.

MEDICAL PROTOCOL: Limited Core Exam

Class Established: July, 1973
Revised: June, 1977
June, 1986
April, 1992(M)
April, 2010