X-Ray Techs

UOC’s X-Ray Technologists perform a wide variety of administrative and medical functions including obtaining information from patients, recording vital signs, explaining treatments, and assisting the physician during the examination. Under the direct supervision of a physician, they may also call in drug refills, draw blood, remove sutures, and change dressings. They also handle physician dictation and correspondence, update patient medical records, and arrange hospital admission or laboratory services.

Invariably, the first course of orthopaedic diagnostic treatment involves the use of X-ray imaging. X-rays are still highly effective when used to diagnose bone fractures and other orthopaedic injuries. However, effective diagnosis requires accurate imaging, which can only be ensured through the careful operation of an experienced X-Ray Tech. These professionals have degrees in their field, and have completed extensive training by the manufacturer of the equipment.

X-Ray Techs prepare patients for radiologic examinations by explaining the procedure, and most importantly, properly positioning patients so that the parts of the body can be effectively radiographed. These technicians position radiographic equipment at the correct angle and height over the appropriate area of a patient’s body. Using instruments similar to a measuring tape, they may measure the thickness of the section to be radiographed and set controls on the X-ray machine to produce radiographs of the appropriate density, detail, and contrast.

X-Ray Techs with University Orthopaedic Clinic & Spine Center are licensed and/or certified by the State of Alabama.