IMPORTANT ISSUES OF RADTECHS.pdf

BS Radiologic Technology 2 - Metol Important Issues of Radiologic Technologist 02 October, 2024  The role of a Radiologic Technologist has evolved significantly over time, and various issues have shaped both its past and present landscape. These issues r...

BS Radiologic Technology 2 - Metol Important Issues of Radiologic Technologist 02 October, 2024  The role of a Radiologic Technologist has evolved significantly over time, and various issues have shaped both its past and present landscape. These issues relate to technological advances, education, safety, and professional recognition. Here are some of the important issues affecting the profession, both historically and today. PAST ISSUES 1. RADIATION SAFETY Early Exposure Risks In the early days of radiology, the dangers of radiation exposure were not fully understood. Radiologic technologists and patients were frequently exposed to high levels of radiation without sufficient protective measures. Development of Safety Protocols Over time, the implementation of radiation safety protocols, such as shielding and protective gear, became standard practice to reduce the risk of radiation-induced conditions, such as cancer. PAST ISSUES 2. LACK OF STANDARDIZED EDUCATION Early Training Initially, there were no standardized educational pathways or certification requirements for radiologic technologists. Many were trained on the job with little formal education in radiation physics or patient care. Professionalization of the Field As radiology technology advanced, the need for a more formalized education system became apparent. Over time, educational programs and certification processes were developed to ensure that technologists were trained to use increasingly complex imaging technology safely and effectively. PAST ISSUES 3. RECOGNITION AND PROFESSIONAL STATUS Limited Professional Recognition Radiologic technologists struggled for professional recognition within the healthcare industry. Many were seen as technicians, rather than professionals with specialized skills. Advocacy for Certification and Licensing Efforts by professional organizations, like the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), led to the development of certification and licensing standards, improving the professional status of radiologic technologists. In an environment of rapid growth and technological advancement. Radiologic technologists face challenges when introducing new technologies or upgrading equipment, addressing issues that affect their ability to provide quality patient care under ALARA principles while adjusting to these advancements. PRESENT ISSUES 1.TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT Complex Imaging Modalities The rapid advancement in imaging technology, including CT, MRI, and PET scans, has increased the complexity of the radiologic technologist's role. Today, technologists must be proficient in using a wide array of highly sophisticated equipment. Artificial Intelligence (AI) The integration of AI into radiologic imaging has both benefits and challenges. While AI can help in analyzing images more quickly and accurately, there is concern that it could potentially reduce the demand for radiologic technologists in certain tasks. PRESENT ISSUES 2. ONGOING RADIATION SAFETY CONTROLS Improved Protocols but Continued Risks Despite advances in radiation safety, radiologic technologists still face risks from long-term exposure to low levels of radiation. Continuous monitoring and adherence to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles remain critical. Radiation Dose Management Technologists today must be well-versed in managing radiation doses, especially with the increasing use of high-dose imaging technologies like CT scans. PRESENT ISSUES 3. WORKFORCE SHORTAGES AND BURNOUTS Staffing Challenges Like many healthcare professions, radiologic technologists are experiencing workforce shortages. This is due to factors such as an aging workforce, increased demand for diagnostic imaging, and difficulty in recruiting new professionals. Burnout The demanding nature of the job, which often involves long hours, high patient volumes, and the stress of working in high-stakes environments, has led to increased rates of burnout among technologists. PRESENT ISSUES 4. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND SCOPE OF PRACTICE Expanding Scope of Practice The role of the radiologic technologist is expanding, with some technologists moving into more advanced roles, such as radiologist assistants (RAs). This expanded scope allows them to take on more responsibilities, such as performing certain diagnostic procedures under the supervision of a radiologist. Lifelong Learning Continuing education is increasingly important as technology continues to evolve. Radiologic technologists must constantly update their skills to stay current with the latest imaging techniques and safety protocols. FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS AI Integration and Job Security As AI continues to play a more significant role in image analysis, radiologic technologists will need to adapt by learning to work alongside AI technology. The profession may see shifts in job roles, with technologists focusing more on patient care and the management of imaging procedures. Globalization and Telemedicine The rise of telemedicine and remote imaging consultations could change the way radiologic technologists work, allowing for more collaboration across distances but also introducing new challenges in ensuring high-quality imaging in remote settings. Ethical Issues in Radiology: A Guide for Rad Techs Why is it necessary for radiologic technologists to learn about medical imaging ethics? Law, Morality, and Ethics Systems in Radiology. The Radiology Medical Imaging Profession's Code of Ethics. Consent, Rights, and Protections of Patients in the Making of Ethical Decisions. Rights of Patients. Informed Consent. Moral and Ethical Conundrums. Recognizing Moral and Ethical Conundrums of Identification. MEMBERS: -Jessa, Aguilar -Joseph, Camaso -Khen, Fernandez -Eric, Gotera -Tristan, Ybañez REFERENCES: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-professionals.com%2Fen%2Fethical-issues-in-radiology- for-rad-techs%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3ibY_bVkDDgGXg6-6cUs1BVX7Jqb7cDFFqDEYQLYpZ- eFu_K- tqSYKgDc_aem_PrLJbyhaZ8VcfJLlZUrWOw&h=AT1Ly4i_9Mi6euQZB9_LBCtKIfZqVup6BMKk9QczlEpsDU13y4i3ykmSvuta0 d4o66y29N2PjngiCHAbqjMF_aIECrAxbbrqU-tPgpvd-13Rb4gx6OhQVBg4ghhn6k_Vdaz15w Pozgar, G. (2016). Legal and Ethical Issues for Health Professionals. 4th ed. Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning; 1-49, 69-74, 121-234, 245-249, 264, 360-361, 437-465. Matthews, E. P., & Matthews, T. M. (2015). Medical Ethics and Law in Radiologic Technology. Radiologic Technology, 87(2), 163–184. Christensen, C., & Larson, J. R., Jr. (1993). Collaborative medical decision making. Medical Decision Making: An International Journal of the Society for Medical Decision Making, 13(4), 339–346 https://www.asrt.org/docs/default-source/research/whitepapers/patient-safety-and-quality-in-medical-imaging-the- radiologic-technologist's-role.pdf? sfvrsn=488906d0_13&fbclid=IwY2xjawFo2m5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHST3QbL_AA2pvm7xixdDHZz3amgULg0um7ecLiJluT _XTk5QrL100buQbQ_aem_pY-jgywTfP4bHr1iH8V28Q