Diagnostic radiography consists of an array of diagnostic and interventional procedures that use externally applied x-rays to generate images of body structures. Differential absorption of the x-rays is recorded on film or digitally.
Most radiological procedures involve short exposure to low-level radiation.
Contrast agents are sometimes used to enhance certain organs and structures that otherwise are not seen. The technologist is responsible for the quality of the x-ray images and for providing the correct view of specific body structures and systems. To achieve this, the radiological technologist expertly correlates clinical information and patient positioning, uses computerized equipment to process the resulting analogue and digital data and modulates the output to obtain images of optimum quality and medical utility. Career Path Graduates may be employed in the Diagnostic Imaging department of a community or teaching hospital, or in a privately operated x-ray clinic. Salaries are highly competitive with those of other allied health professions.