Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive diagnostic modality that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves in conjunction with a computer to generate cross – sectional, three-dimensional images of patient anatomy. It can be used to image many parts of the body, such as the brain, optic nerves, brainstem, spine, heart, abdomen, pelvis, musculoskeletal (muscles and joints), and blood vessels. MRI provides excellent imaging of the soft tissues of the nervous system and is very effective in aiding in the diagnosis of brain and spinal cord tumors, multiple sclerosis, herniated discs and joint injuries of the knees and shoulders.
MRI is also being used to study the cardiovascular system with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) that will detect, diagnose and aid in the treatment of heart disorders, stroke and blood vessel diseases. and functional studies with Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), is another study used in MRI that permits investigation of brain function.
In MRI, there is no ionizing radiation utilized, however, the unique MRI environment requires special safety precautions. Extreme care must be taken when deciding who should be placed in the scanner as the magnetic field is so strong it may pull at any metal that is in or outside of the patient’s body.
Responsibilities of Magnetic Resonance Imaging TechnologistThe MRI technologist independently performs procedures with efficiency and skill. The technologist must have a thorough knowledge of anatomy and the ability to make judgments about the MRI pulse sequencing, gradient magnetic fields and anatomic slice orientation. Knowledge about magnetic fields, electromagnets, atomic structure and computers is essential. Patient care responsibilities require knowledge of sterile technique, administration of contrast media, ability to handle emergency procedures and routine performance of venipuncture. MR technologist duties assist patients in dealing with both the physical and emotional discomfort they may have from having an MRI scan as some patients find it difficult to be comfortable in a small enclosed space and experience claustrophobia.
The MRI technologist is the expert in magnetic safety for patients, self and co-workers. They must constantly be on alert to the potential danger that metal and other materials pose near the magnet and be vigil in maintaining a safe environment.
How do I become a MRI Technologist?MRI is recognized as a primary and post-primary certification by the ARRT. This means that a student could go to school to become specifically an MRI technologist without completing radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy or sonography, however there are very few programs structured that way. The majority of MRI technologists are radiographers who have completed MRI as a post primary certification. In the past, there were opportunities to learn MRI through on-the job training if you were a radiographer and today a few institutions will still train technologists this way. However, technologists who learn MRI through on-the-job training quickly find themselves frustrated with a lack of understanding or functioning without the background knowledge they need to make clear independent decisions. Guided learning is essential due to the complexity of the equipment, the independent decisions to be made and the quality of patient care required.
Most of the new MRI technologists today have completed a formal educational program and have passed the ARRT certification exam in MRI. There are many different types of MRI programs available and students are encouraged to select the one that meets their needs. Some programs offer baccalaureate degrees and others continuing education and certificates of completion. Many are offered online and others focus on classroom learning. Program lengths vary from 8 weeks to 12 months and costs range from $430.00 to $12,300.00.
MRI certification distinguishes a technologist as being competent and knowledgeable in MRI imaging. In order to be eligible for MRI certification, you must either hold a primary certification in radiography, nuclear medicine, sonography or radiation therapy or have completed an “approved educational program.” A list of clinical experience requirements must be documented. MRI certification is valued in the medical community. Some states will require MRI certification in order to practice and most institutions will select a certified MRI technologist over a non-certified one.
The University of Utah, Department of Radiology, has offered an MRI program since 2004 that has been very successful. Favorable graduate feedback praises the University for program comprehensiveness, quality of teaching and state of the art equipment at a world class institution. The program can be completed within a reasonable length of time and tuition costs are competitive. Students will learn from the finest of instructors in an organized classroom setting and practice the most current procedures with experienced and certified MRI technologists. The majority of students are working in MRI by the time they complete the program.
Educational PathwayPre-requisites for radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy or sonography. (1-2 years)
Completion of radiography,(ARRT) nuclear medicine, (NMTCB or ARRT) sonography,(ARRT or ARDMS) or radiation therapy program (ARRT) and successful passing of certification examination. (2 – 4 years)
Complete ARRT clinical experience requirements through on the job training or formal MRI program. Complete ARRT certification in MRI.
MRI Program (3 months – 1 year) or
On the job training (usually awarded to technologists with 2+ years of experience. Six months or more of training depending on individual.
OR
Locate a program that offers magnetic resonance imaging as a primary certification. (2 – 4 years) and successful completion of ARRT exam.
Minimum post-secondary years will be 4 with an earned associate of science or baccalaureate degree.
Demand/SalaryThe demand for well qualified MRI technologists is needed today. There are more examinations being performed by MRI and many institutions find themselves buying more than one magnet and offering services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The studies are becoming increasingly complex and medical institutions need technologists who are skilled and can make independent decisions. MRI is expanding into the fields of nuclear medicine, interventional radiography, mammography and surgery. The future holds many new horizons.
Salaries will vary from geographic location and institution. The American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) Wage and Salary Survey of 2007 shows that magnetic resonance imaging technologists nationwide earn an average annual salary of $61, 928 with a high salary range of $77,178, being awarded to new technologists who have 3 – 5 years experience.
Comments from AuthorThe MRI field is the most popular of specialized areas for radiographers to advance into at this time. The pay is better, the respect higher, the patient contact longer and challenge for learning is high. It is not a specialty that is for everyone. Unlike CT, the pace is slower due to the amount of time each scan takes to complete averaging somewhere between .5 – 1 hour. The MRI technologist will deal with trauma patients after they have CT exams and will frequently work with cancer patients if associated with a surgical center. MRI exams are frequently performed for orthopedic injuries and neurological disorders which also creates jobs in neurology and orthopedic centers.
The academic curriculum of MRI is very different from radiography and quite challenging as one learns about magnetism and pulse sequencing and how the image is created. AN MRI technologist will spend a considerable amount of time working on the computer while scanning the patient and making independent decisions for each patient. Cardiac scanning is becoming more common and will probably be a standard of care in the future. PET/MRI is on the horizon and MR mammography has been recommended for certain women. Needless to say, there are plenty of future opportunities in MRI and great job stability.
In the future, there may be more primary certification programs developed in MRI for non-radiographers however, the radiology community will continue to protect this imaging area by supporting the RT requirement. If you really want to do MRI, start now and get the radiology certification instead of trying to find an easier pathway to reach MRI.
Links for further InformationInternational Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM)
Society for Cardiovascular Medicine (SCMR)
American Society of Radiologic Technology (ASRT)
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
International Society of Radiographers and Radiologic Technologists (ISSRT)
