Technical Standards

A performance of the duties of the MRI Technologist encompasses the following:

1. Technical skills

  • The ability to use Computerized Tomography equipment to perform diagnostic procedures in a safe manner consistent with minimal radiation exposure and maximum image quality.
  • The ability to evaluate and interpret requests for CT procedures and determine the best method of achieving optimal results.
  • Select exposure factors and accessory devices for all procedures with consideration of patient size, age, and extent of disease.
  • Evaluate images to ascertain that they contain proper identification and are of diagnostic value.

2. Physical requirements

Sufficient strength and fine motor coordination to:
  • Be able to push, pull, and lift 25 pounds.
  • Push a stretcher, wheelchair or other transportation device without injury to self, patient, or others.
  • Assist all patients, according to individual needs and abilities, in moving, turning and transferring from transportation devices to the CT couch, etc.
  • Accurately draw up sterile contrast media and other solutions without contaminating the syringe and/or needle, etc.
Adequate eyesight to:
  • Observe the patient in order to assess the patient’s condition and/or needs from a distance of, at least, 20 feet.
  • Can see numbers, letters, calibrations, etc. of varying sizes located on equipment utilized by a CT technologist.
Sufficient hearing to:
  • Respond to patient’s verbal inquiries
  • Communicate with other personnel involved in the care of the patient
  • Initiate timely response to audible alarms and signals

3. Interpersonal skills

  • Work in a professional manner with patients of all ages, races, creeds, and physical conditions while maintaining and respecting patient confidentiality.
  • Work with newborns, children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in a safe and helping manner.
  • Communicate and receive written and verbal instructions and carry them out using proper channels of communication.
  • Use accurate verbal and written communications in English to:
    • Interpret clinical data
    • Read the patient’s medical chart and/or physician’s orders
    • Comprehend and carry out physician requests
    • Provide patient/public education related to CT procedures and radiation
    • Legibly write patient history

4. Intellectual ability and emotional stability

  • Exercise independent judgment and discretion in the technical performance of CT imaging procedures
  • Perform mathematical problems quickly and accurately
  • Work efficiently in stressful situations
  • Complete program requirement


Working conditions
  • Works in an air-conditioned environment with minimal exposure to noise and humidity
  • Has frequent exposure to blood and body fluids from patients
  • Has minimal exposure to x-ray radiation