Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Slidell LA 70458

How to Pick an Xray Technician Degree Program near Slidell Louisiana

Slidell LA x-ray tech internship programCongratulations on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Slidell LA so you can train to be a radiology technician. But now that you have made a decision to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you tackle picking the right school and program so that you will get the proper training to become a qualified professional? And considering that the majority of states do require that radiology techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you may need training to pass a licensing test. So it’s imperative that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. A number of potential students start by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and frequently gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location should be taken into consideration, there are additional important qualifiers also. For example, you must ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These inquiries and others you must ask the schools you are reviewing are presented later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a x-ray tech does and the credentials and training options that are available.

X-Ray Technician Career Description

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, they all have the identical principal job description, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some elect to work as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for instance mammography. They can work in Slidell LA clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist might utilize include:

  • Traditional and specialized X-Rays
  • Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Sonography or ultrasound
  • Fluoroscopy

Radiographers must take care of their equipment and also routinely evaluate its functionality and safety. They are also expected to retain detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Slidell LA health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Slidell LAThe primary requirement for enrolling in a radiology tech program is to have received a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, generally takes 18 months to two years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to four years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that are appropriate also. Something to keep in mind is that Slidell LA radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It may frequently be satisfied by taking part in an externship program which many schools sponsor through local hospitals and clinics in their area. After you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any licensing or certification requirements in Louisiana or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Licensing and Certification

After you have graduated from an Radiologist program, depending on the state where you will be practicing you might have to be licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their criteria differ so contact your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but a number provide other options for testing as well. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing procedure, otherwise it is optional. However, numerous Slidell LA employers will only hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Technician Classes

attending x-ray tech school online in Slidell 70458As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree schools. So while you can still obtain your online degree, a large amount of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is typically conducted in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Slidell LA residence. Students who keep working while earning their degree usually discover that the online style of education is far more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online programs are often less costly than traditional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, costs for study materials and commuting can be reduced as well. But just confirm that the online program you choose is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are disciplined enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then an online school may be the best choice for you.

Subjects to Ask Radiology Tech Colleges

After you have chosen the type of degree that you want to obtain, you can start the process of searching for and assessing Slidell LA x-ray technician schools. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or travel to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be important. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenditures will be an important variable also. But in addition to location and cost, what else should you look at when comparing schools? Well, you should ask if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these crucial details before you make your selection, we have assembled a list of questions that you should ask the colleges you are considering.

Are the Radiology Tech Colleges Accredited? Most xray tech colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Nevertheless, it’s still imperative to make sure that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs earning accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone an extensive evaluation of their teachers and course materials. If the college is online it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also help in obtaining financial assistance and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous Slidell LA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Inquire if the Louisiana xray tech programs you are reviewing have relationships with local hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific way to receive hands on experience in a clinical environment, they are also a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may assist students and graduates form professional relationships in the Slidell LA health care community and help with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Find out if the radiographer programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Slidell LA healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the school they pick will need to be within travelling distance of their Slidell LA home. Individuals who have opted to attend online classes obviously will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. Something to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges commonly charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of person that likes to sit way in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will probably want a small class size. Small classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Slidell LA schools you are looking at what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program also.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer  school you ultimately choose can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you opt to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Slidell LA, check that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would need to enroll in. Also, find out what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Desire to Become an X-Ray Tech?

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's advantageous to consider questions you could be asked. One of the questions that interviewers typically ask radiographer candidates is "What compelled you to decide on radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not only the personal reasons you may have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what attributes and abilities you have that make you exceptional at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, along with a certain number of standard interview questions, so you should organize several strategies about how you would like to address them. Because there are numerous factors that go into selecting a career, you can answer this fundamental question in a number of ways. When formulating an answer, aim to include the reasons the profession interests you as well as the talents you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the job. Don't attempt to memorize a response, but write down some ideas and anecdotes that pertain to your own experiences and strengths. Going over sample answers can assist you to develop your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Pick the Best X-Ray Tech Program near Slidell LA

Choosing the best x-ray technician college is an important first step toward beginning a rewarding new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the majority of the working day and move and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety guidelines developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having social skills is a necessity in order to have a pleasant work environment and deliver the best available patient care. As has been covered in this post, there are a number of questions that you should ask each college you are reviewing before making your ultimate selection. This is just as true whether you decide on an online program or drive to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can analyze and compare each college so you can narrow down your options and make your final choice. And with the appropriate training and your motivation to succeed, you can reach your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in Slidell LA.

Some Background on Slidell Louisiana

Slidell, Louisiana

Slidell /slaɪˈdɛl/ is the largest city situated on the northeast shore of Lake Pontchartrain and St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 27,068 at the 2010 census.[3] Greater Slidell has a population of about 90,000.[4] It is part of the New Orleans−Metairie−Kenner Metropolitan Statistical Area.

One of the earlier settlers to the area was John William Gause. Along with a younger brother, Wesley Coke Asbury Gause, Judge Wingate, and several others, they left Shallotte, North Carolina, on February 18, and arrived at Pearlington, Mississippi, on April 14, 1836. Wesley and his family decided to remain there, while John and family decided to cross the Pearl River, and built a log cabin on the west bank, just a little further south. He then began a lumber mill, in the fledgling town later to be known as Slidell. His traveling back and forth from lumber yard to home created a road, known today as Gause Boulevard, a major east/west street in the town. The lumber yard was located at the northwest area of where Gause Boulevard crosses the railroad track. The log cabin was built at the very east end of the road, just a few yards from the river. The house stood until the late 1990s, and a small family burial plot still remains, where John is buried between his two wives, Lydia Russ and Johanna Frederica VanHeemskerk.

Slidell was founded on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain in 1882 and 1883 during construction of the New Orleans and Northeastern Railroad (N.O.N.E.).[5] The N.O.N.E. line connected New Orleans to Meridian, Mississippi. The town was named in honor of American politician and Confederate ambassador to France John Slidell, father-in-law of real estate developer Baron Frederic Emile d'Erlanger and officially chartered by the Louisiana State Legislature in 1888.[5]

Around 1910, Slidell began a period of economic and industrial growth. A large creosote plant was built, and Slidell became home to the Fritz Salmen Brickyard, a major producer of bricks later named St. Joe Brick. A lumber mill and shipyard were also built. Following the construction of Interstate 10, Interstate 59, and Interstate 12, Slidell became a major crossroads for those traversing the Gulf States.[citation needed]

In 1915, the creosote plant burned to the ground, killing 55 workers and 3 firefighters.[citation needed] The plant was rebuilt on Bayou Lane, closer to a water source and closer to a fire station. Eventually, creosote polluted the bayou which was a source of drinking water for many of Slidell's residents. The creosote plant was abandoned in 1986 and became an EPA Superfund site. The canal was dredged and waste incinerated until completion of the cleanup in 1996. At that time a boat launch was built and Heritage Park was constructed on the former site.[citation needed]

 

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