Interventional radiology is a fascinating field that combines imaging technologies with minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat various medical conditions. As an interventional radiology technologist (IR tech), you will play a crucial role in assisting radiologists and other healthcare professionals in these procedures. To become a certified IR tech, you need to follow a structured path that involves education, training, and certification. In this article, we will outline the 5 steps to achieve interventional radiology tech certification.
The demand for IR techs is increasing due to the growing need for minimally invasive procedures and the expanding role of imaging technologies in healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of radiologic technologists, including IR techs, is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
To capitalize on this trend and start a rewarding career as an IR tech, follow these 5 steps to certification:
Step 1: Earn an Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology
The first step to becoming an IR tech is to earn an associate's degree in radiologic technology from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). These programs typically take two years to complete and include both classroom and clinical training in radiologic technology.
During your studies, you will learn about human anatomy, patient assessment, radiation safety, and imaging procedures. You will also gain hands-on experience in clinical settings, where you will assist radiologists and other healthcare professionals in various imaging procedures.
Key Skills and Knowledge
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Patient assessment and communication
- Radiation safety and protection
- Imaging procedures and modalities
- Clinical experience in radiologic technology
Step 2: Obtain Certification in Radiologic Technology
After graduating from a JRCERT-accredited program, you need to obtain certification in radiologic technology from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). To become certified, you must pass the ARRT certification exam in radiography, which assesses your knowledge and skills in radiologic technology.
Certification is essential for IR techs, as it demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the profession. Many employers require certification as a condition of employment, and it is also a prerequisite for advanced certifications and specializations.
ARRT Certification Requirements
- Graduate from a JRCERT-accredited program
- Pass the ARRT certification exam in radiography
- Complete continuing education requirements to maintain certification
Step 3: Gain Experience in Interventional Radiology
After becoming certified in radiologic technology, you need to gain experience in interventional radiology. This can be achieved by working in a hospital or imaging center that offers interventional radiology services.
As an IR tech, you will assist radiologists and other healthcare professionals in various procedures, such as angiograms, embolizations, and biopsies. You will also learn about different imaging modalities, such as fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and CT scanning.
Key Skills and Knowledge
- Interventional radiology procedures and modalities
- Patient care and safety
- Imaging equipment operation and maintenance
- Clinical experience in interventional radiology
Step 4: Pursue Advanced Certification in Interventional Radiology
To advance your career as an IR tech, you can pursue advanced certification in interventional radiology from the ARRT. The ARRT offers a certification exam in vascular-interventional radiography, which assesses your knowledge and skills in interventional radiology.
Advanced certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the profession, and it can also lead to higher salaries and greater job opportunities.
ARRT Advanced Certification Requirements
- Hold ARRT certification in radiography
- Complete a structured education program in interventional radiology
- Pass the ARRT certification exam in vascular-interventional radiography
Step 5: Maintain Certification and Pursue Continuing Education
To maintain certification and stay current with the latest advancements in interventional radiology, you need to pursue continuing education. The ARRT requires certified IR techs to complete continuing education requirements every two years.
Continuing education can be achieved through various means, such as attending conferences and workshops, completing online courses, and participating in professional organizations.
ARRT Continuing Education Requirements
- Complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years
- Maintain ARRT certification in radiography
- Pursue advanced certifications and specializations
What is the role of an interventional radiology technologist?
+An interventional radiology technologist assists radiologists and other healthcare professionals in various imaging procedures, such as angiograms, embolizations, and biopsies.
What are the requirements for ARRT certification in radiography?
+To become certified in radiography, you must graduate from a JRCERT-accredited program and pass the ARRT certification exam in radiography.
How do I maintain certification in interventional radiology?
+To maintain certification, you must complete continuing education requirements every two years and maintain ARRT certification in radiography.
By following these 5 steps, you can achieve interventional radiology tech certification and start a rewarding career in this exciting field. Remember to stay current with the latest advancements in interventional radiology and pursue continuing education to maintain certification and advance your career.