Event-date: November 3 - November 7
Medical Radiation Technologist (MRT) Week is an annual celebration of the essential role that MRTs play in the health care system. MRTs correctly position patients and operate high-tech equipment to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and treatment. At Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, MRTs work in General X-ray, CT, MRI, and Nuclear Medicine. In X-ray, technologists use several pieces of radiation producing equipment to obtain images including x-rays, fluoroscopy (live imaging) and mammograms. You can find x-ray technologists throughout the hospital: in the Emergency Department performing portable x-rays at the bedside, in fluoroscopy capturing live images of the GI tract, and in the Operating Room providing real-time imaging during surgeries. X-ray imaging is commonly used to visualize bones, lungs, the abdomen, digestive tract, and breast tissue. Computerized Tomography (CT) uses X-rays and intravenous (IV) contrast (when required) to obtain cross-section images of the body - like slices of a loaf of bread. These individual images can be stacked to create a whole 3D image of bones, blood vessels and organs. CT scans are performed for many reasons including trauma, stroke, and to detect and monitor cancers. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists produce images using equipment that generates radio waves and a strong magnetic field. MRI is used to effectively look at soft tissue in the body. This includes the brain, joints, muscles, tendons, and blood vessels. When contrast is required, technologists also start intravenous (IV) lines to help enhance the images. Technologists work with patients to ensure safety and comfort through these sometimes lengthy procedures, which includes carefully screening for metal implants, devices, or other contraindications before the scan begins. Nuclear Medicine Technologists administer radiopharmaceuticals, which are small amounts of radioactive material that travel to specific organs or tissues in the body. A special gamma camera is then used to detect the radiation and capture images that show how the body is functioning at a cellular level. These scans help identify the nature of a disease, how it is affecting bodily functions, and support diagnosis and treatment planning. Join us in celebrating MRT Week and recognizing the skill, dedication, and vital role Medical Radiation Technologists play in patient care every day. To learn more about a career as an MRT, visit https://www.camrt.ca/mrtcareer/ Those interested in a job shadowing at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital can contact MRTpreceptor@albertahealthservices.ca or call 403-529-8850.
