An excellent orientation to the field of radiologic technology, this book has launched the careers of generations of successful radiographers. It covers basic learning skills and provides a historical overview of medicine and radiology. With this text, readers will have not only a solid introduction to the coursework that will follow in their radiography program, but they will also know what to expect from a career in the imaging sciences, what will be required in the practice environment, and what their options will be for advancement.

• Critical Thinking Skills chapter provides an excellent introduction to what critical thinking is and why it is important to RTs, through developing a useful definition of critical thinking, examining common mindsets that can hinder sound reasoning, and presenting four important steps for readers to take on their way to becoming critical thinkers.
• Thorough introduction to the field of radiologic technology covers topics in just the right amount of detail to give an informative overview of subjects that will be covered in depth in future courses.
• Comprehensive information about the profession of radiologic technology includes customer service, ethics and professionalism, and how to join professional organizations and keep up with continuing education requirements after graduation.
• Reader-friendly style leads from one topic to the next in a logical progression, with relevant discussions, and without assuming prior knowledge of the subject matter.
• Review questions are located at the end of each chapter with answers in the Appendix.

Part 1: Becoming a Radiologic Technologist

Chapter 1: Introduction to Quality Customer Service - includes NEW section covering diversity

Chapter 2: Becoming a Better Student

Chapter 3: Memorization-A Key to Learning

Chapter 4: Critical Thinking Skills

Chapter 5: The History of Medicine

Chapter 6: Radiology: A Historical Perspective


Part 2: Practicing the Profession

Chapter 7: Radiography Education: From Classroom to Clinic

Chapter 8: The Language of Medicine

Chapter 9: Imaging Equipment

Chapter 10: Radiographic Examinations: Diagnosing Disease and Injury

Chapter 11: Imaging: Life Cycle and Quality

Chapter 12: Ethics and Professionalism in Radiologic Technology

Chapter 13: Patient Care and Management

Chapter 14: Medicolegal Considerations

Chapter 15: Organizations and Operation of the Radiology Department

Chapter 16: Economics of Radiology

Chapter 17: Quality Assurance in Radiology

Chapter 18: Radiation Safety and Protective Measures

Chapter 19: Allied Health Professions


Part 3: Growing with the Profession

Chapter 20: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists

Chapter 21: The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology

Chapter 22: Professional Associations

Chapter 23: Specialization in Radiologic Technology

Chapter 24: Professional Development and Career Advancement

Chapter 25: Continuing Education for the Radiologic Technologist

Chapter 26: Status of Health Care Delivery


Appendix: Answers to Review Questions

Glossary

Index

By La Verne Tolley Gurley, PhD, FASRT, Professor Emeritus, South West Tennessee Community College, Memphis, TN, USA; and William J. Callaway, BA, RT(R), Chair, Allied Health Division, Director, Associate Degree Radiography Program, Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield, IL, USA