Learn more about the Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology advanced diploma program and career as a combined laboratory and x-ray technologist (CLXT).
Updated: June 2023
1. Is the Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology program easy?
The program is an intense program which requires students to complete 20-30 hours of homework per week.
2. How do CLXTs get optimal images for the pathology (disease or injury) in question?
In order to position patients and get an optimal image, CLXTs must:
- Thoroughly know human anatomy and a large number of pathologies, how they appear on radiographic images and how to position patients so the required anatomy and pathologies are properly demonstrated.
- Understand x-ray equipment and the technical factors required to operate the equipment so they can protect patients and themselves from being exposed to excess radiation.
- Communicate clearly with the patient as to what they are doing and what they need the patient to do.
- Touch the patient when positioning them for the x-ray, ECG or blood sample collection.
- Assist the patient with removing hearing aids and dentures when required.
- Comfort and assist patients who may be fragile, fearful, have dementia or be in extreme pain.
- Assist patients who are nauseous, may vomit or may have diarrhea.
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves when dealing with patients and equipment.
3. Are good communication skills important for a CLXT?
Yes. CLXTs must communicate and interact professionally with a variety of people including (but not limited to):
- CLXT students
- Doctors and nurses
- Other CLXTs
- Paramedics
- Patients and their families
- Porters
- Radiologists
- Sask Polytech instructors and staff
4. What types of laboratory testing do CLXTs do?
CLXTs perform some diagnostics hematology and clinical chemistry testing.
5. Do CLXTs perform invasive procedures (use needles)?
Yes. CLXTs perform invasive venipunctures and capillary punctures to collect blood samples from patients.
6. What kind of samples do CLXTs work with?
CLXTs will prepare samples such as blood, body fluids, urine and feces for diagnostic testing.
7. Why are decision making skills important to a CLXT?
CLXTs must make critical decisions when evaluating analytical results for accuracy and validity prior to releasing test information to physicians. Physicians rely on these validated laboratory results to diagnose, treat, monitor and prevent disease.
8. Is the CLXT profession an exciting profession?
Yes. CLXTs work in a rapidly changing technological field. Because of this, new procedures are often developed to reflect the rapid pace of change in the workplace and continual learning throughout their career.
9. Do CLXTs work shift work?
Yes. CLXTs work a variety of shifts which may include early mornings (5 or 6 a.m.), days, evenings, weekends, nights, statutory holidays and on call.
10. Do CLXTs only work in the x-ray department and the laboratory within the hospital?
No. CLXTs work in various areas of the hospital when performing x-ray (portable x-rays), drawing blood or doing ECGs.
11. Is CLXT a physically demanding job?
Yes. CLXTs must be able to meet the physical demands of the job including being on their feet all day, moving large pieces of equipment, placing x-ray plates (image receptors) under patients for mobile radiography and moving and/or positioning of patients.
12. Is CLXT an emotional job?
CLXTs must be able to cope with the emotional demands of working with severely ill or injured patients and their caregivers.
13. What types of personal skills are important as an CLXT?
CLXTs must be able to prioritize competing demands in a high stress environment and they require good critical thinking and troubleshooting skills. Effective time management skills are essential for both the CLXT student and technologist due to heavy workloads.
14. Where are CLXTs typically employed?
The majority of CLXTs are employed in rural locations in Saskatchewan and Alberta. To be eligible to work in Alberta, CLXTs must write an Alberta licensing exam after graduation.