Medical Radiologic Technology Frequently Asked Questions

The program is an intense program which requires students to complete 20-30 hours of homework per week.

No. In addition to working within the x-ray department MRTs also take x-rays in various areas within a hospital including the operating room, emergency department, pediatric unit, cardiac care unit, morgue and more.

In order to position patients and get an optimal image, MRTs 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.
• 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 have diarrhea.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves when dealing with patients and equipment.

MRTs will do other procedures including:

• Venipunctures (give needles) to start IVs and administer contrast media under the direction of a radiologist.
• Barium enemas which requires placing a tube in the patient’s rectum.
• X-rays in trauma situations or in the operating room where they will be exposed to patients with severe injuries as well as to blood and bodily fluids.

MRTs will work a variety of shifts including days, early mornings (5 or 6 a.m.), evenings, weekends, nights, holidays and on call.

Yes. MRTs 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.

MRTs must be able to cope with the emotional demands of working with severely ill or injured patients and their caregivers.

MRTs must be able to prioritize competing demands in a high stress environment. They require good critical thinking and troubleshooting skills.

Yes. MRTs must communicate and interact professionally with a variety of people including (but not limited to):

• Cardiology technicians
• Doctors and nurses
• Other MRTs
• MRT students
• Patients and their families 
• Radiologists
• Paramedics
• Pharmacists
• Porters
• Sask Polytech instructors and staff