The picture of health.
This specialized X-ray program is unlike any other. If you are a graduate of the Medical Laboratory Technology program working in your field, this is an opportunity to augment your skill set. This program can unlock exciting new challenges and diversity in your career – making you even more employable in today’s medical world.
X-rays, as a medical advance, has been in existence for quite some time; in fact, because of its amazing applications in imaging, it is often referred to as the most useful medical advancement in history
1. Despite incredible technological advancements in imaging, X-rays remain the most common form of imaging used by medical professionals today.
This four-semester post diploma program enhances the practice of medical laboratory technology with a practice subset of medical radiation technology. The program emphasizes a practical approach to developing the knowledge and skills necessary to perform a limited scope of general radiography. You will learn how to interpret requisitions from requesting physicians, provide quality patient care and operate sophisticated radiation emitting devices to produce images of the skeletal, digestive, respiratory and urinary systems.
Along with theory of X-ray production, equipment use and image optimization, you will also study radiographic anatomy, positioning techniques and radiation safety and quality procedures. Theoretical learning is supplemented by practical clinical exposure during the second semester.
The third semester concentrates on providing a correlation between theory and patient care through seven (7) weeks of intensive simulation procedures. You will then advance to a 16-week clinical radiography placement where you will participate in work-integrated learning under the direct supervision of a registered medical radiography technologist.
With this experience, combined with theoretical and practical concepts and, following attainment of clinical competence, you will be ready to practice as an entry-level Combined Laboratory and X-Ray (CLXT) Technologist!
Program Highlights
- Qualifications to work in both laboratory and X-ray fields
- Two clinical placements and one on-campus simulation course
- Practice within the standards of the Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologist (CXLT) Scope of Practice NL
Did You Know? [1]
- X-rays are electromagnetic energy waves that act similarly to light rays, but at wavelengths approximately 1,000 times shorter than those of light.
- X-rays are the oldest and most useful medical technology.
- X-rays have been used in the art world to examine paintings, where rough sketches and even other paintings are found beneath a visible surface. They reveal the integrity of priceless artifacts, such as ancient Egyptian mummies or fossils, without damaging them.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the X-Ray Skills for Medical Laboratory Technologists program, students will be able to:
- Practice within the standards of the Combined Laboratory and X-Ray (LX) Technologist Scope of Practice NL.
- Operate general diagnostic imaging equipment and correctly position patients to produce quality images that assist in diagnosis.
- Follow radiation protection practices and legislation to minimize risk to patients, staff and visitors.
- Maintain and assess radiographic, accessory, and image processing equipment for quality assurance and mitigation of potential risks.
- Provide general patient care, assessments, and transfers as needed.
- Practice independent judgment and critical thinking in the performance of duties.
- Perform administrative and clerical duties using computer technology while ensuring compliance with legal, quality and privacy standards.
CLINICAL PLACEMENTS
Clinical placements are a required element of this program, and you will be assigned placements at approved training sites. Additional sites may be considered in consultation with program faculty. There is no guarantee you will receive your preferred placement. All expenses associated with the completion of clinical placement will be the responsibility of the student.
You will require a clear Certificate of Conduct (Criminal Record Check and Vulnerability Sector Check) to be permitted into a clinical placement. Those with an unclear Certificate of Conduct are advised to speak with program faculty at the beginning of the program.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Entrance requirements for the X-Ray Skills for Medical Laboratory Technologists program are as follows:
- Graduation from an accredited program in Medical Laboratory Technology
- MLT Certification and membership with the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS)
- Employed at a Regional Health Authority within the province of Newfoundland and Labrador as a Medical Laboratory Technologist and sponsored by the employer