Fluoroscopy is one of the most commonly used procedures in the healthcare industry. Fluoroscopy is a minimally invasive process that uses a high-energy laser to excite the fluorite substance in the eye, resulting in tiny particles being released. These small particles are then absorbed by the eye, where they act as a lens to correct vision for the patient. However, if this lens problem is left untreated, it can result in complications such as blindness and tinnitus. To prevent such complications, all individuals undergoing fluoroscopy must undergo adequate training regarding the procedure.
Fluoroscope Training: Learn the Basics First! The first thing you must-do if you are planning to undergo fluoroscopy training is to ensure that you are physically fit. You should also make sure that your vision is clear and that there are no other obstructions in your eye. As mentioned above, fluoroscopy utilizes high-energy radiation exposure, which can be potentially dangerous if the disclosure is too high. For this reason, you should either wear a mask or a full-face shield to protect your face from any unnecessary radiation exposure.
After ensuring that you are healthy, you can now train yourself on fluoroscopy equipment. Fluoroscopic tools include two types of equipment: those that require exposure to high-energy radiation waves and those that generate low-energy radiation waves. The latter type is preferable because it produces smaller doses of radiation; however, it cannot rectify images wisely as it cannot eliminate minute amounts of residual light. Therefore, these two types of equipment are required in fluoroscopy training. You will also be required to undergo training wherein you are taught how to use these fluoroscopic tools properly to ensure that the images you produce are of the highest quality.
Fluoroscopy Training Program: What Should You Expect? Fluoroscopic equipment manufacturers typically offer various training programs for those interested in pursuing a career in this field. Most training programs include lectures, demonstrations, hands-on practice, and classroom presentations. A good program will allow you to learn everything you need to know about fluoroscopy equipment and procedures through the combination of theory and application instruction.
Continuing Education Credits: To stay on top of your continuing education requirements, you should complete approved state-approved continuing education courses every semester. Some states even offer credit for experience in the field. You can contact your state’s health department to determine what methods you need to take to meet your state’s continuing education requirements. Some states, like South Dakota, have specific requirements regarding continuing education credits and how they are completed.
Certification – Becoming a certified fluoroscopy technologist in Houston, Tx requires completing a 2-year post-high school course and passing an examination administered by the Houston, Tx State Board of Cosmetology Examiners. You must also complete a 1-year continuing education course. Completing either the course in laboratory work or the written examination is the starting point for becoming a licensed technologist in Houston, Tx. The test is held in January after you complete the training program but can be scheduled for anywhere from six months to one year later. If you are employed in a medical facility in Houston, Tx, your employer will likely require that you complete both the education and the licensing exam.
Image Wise Study Course: The course is designed to teach you how to use the fluoride laser system and to read the images produced by the instrument. You will also learn about radiation safety, patient preparation, sterilization procedures, and the benefits of using fluoroscopy equipment. Apollo Education administers this four-part fluoroscopy training course. The course is issued by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Image Management for Digital Ultrasound: This four-part ARRT approved training program provides students with the knowledge and skills to supervise and use fluoroscopy machines properly. You will learn how to operate a fluoroscopy machine safely, how to evaluate the patient’s images, and how to set up a fluoroscopy laboratory in the safest possible manner for all patients. This course also includes information on ultrasound’s deterministic effects and biological effects of ultrasound and how to use dose monitoring in fluoroscopy settings. The Commission accredits this course on Educational Accreditation of Radiologic Technologists (CAERT).