Become an MRI Technician

How to Start a Career in MRI

Sep 23, 2009 Diane Ursu

Becoming an MRI technician can be challenging, but proper preparation can ease the transition into this career.

Magnetic resonance imaging uses magnetism to acquire detailed images of the human body. It is especially useful for imaging tendons and the nervous system, but many other parts of the body are examined as well.

MRI technicians are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for patients, including screening patients for the presence of metal, which should never be brought into the MRI room. They must properly position patients for each exam. They must be able to work with claustrophobic patients, some of whom are sedated. Intravenous contrast is often used with MRI, and technicians must be able to insert IVs.

Working as an MRI technician can be a rewarding experience. There are several steps one must follow in order to become an MRI technician. The following guidelines can help ease the transition into this career.

Choosing an MRI Program

Community and private colleges are most likely to offer MRI programs. It is important to meet with an advisor to determine which prerequisites must be met in order to apply for the program. Many colleges require prospective students to complete a radiography or sonography program prior to admittance to the MRI program.

Some MRI programs may include a core curriculum in the program. This includes courses in writing, math, anatomy and physiology, and psychology. These courses may be required before applying to the program and may be used as part of the student selection process for competitive programs.

Verify with the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) that the program of chosen is accredited. Accreditation is necessary for those wishing to become certified upon graduation.

MRI Training

The MRI program may be an Associates degree or certificate program. Throughout the program, students receive didactic training that includes patient care, MRI physics, and anatomy and physiology courses.

Students are assigned to a hospital or are rotated through several hospitals to complete their clinical training. Clinical training involves working with patients and learning how to operate an MRI machine. The American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists requires that students complete 1,000 hours of clinical training.

Finding a Job

Students should create a resume and begin applying for jobs three months prior to graduation. Hospitals include job postings on their web sites. Many hospitals use a traveling MRI service that is a great opportunity for new technicians. Many traveling technician agencies are always looking for technicians and are more than likely to contact any technicians who post their resumes with online job banks.

ARMRIT Registry Exam

Upon graduation, one should begin studying for the ARMRIT registry exam. Many hospitals hire new graduates and, upon hiring, often include a contract clause that the technician sits for the registry exam within one year of the hire date.

The process of becoming an MRI technician can take two or three years. The classroom and hands-on hospital work prepare students for entering into the career, but education is always ongoing. Technicians acquire continuing education credits to reinforce what they have learned in college and to learn new things. Hospital policies change, equipment is improved, and new research is always on the horizon.

The copyright of the article Become an MRI Technician in Career Advice is owned by Diane Ursu. Permission to republish Become an MRI Technician in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

MRI of the Brain

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Dec 9, 2009 10:33 AM

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I think its really really good it helped me with what i needed to know....

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