Why this matters:
High-quality radiographic images are essential for accurately diagnosing and treating illnesses and diseases. Your radiographic technologist should be able to judge whether an image is of diagnostic quality by assessing elements such as contrast, alignment, and image blur. Top candidates will thoroughly explain the techniques and procedures they employ to consistently capture high-quality images.
What to listen for:
- A solid understanding of the roles that correct equipment operation and protocols play in the quality of radiographic images
- Factors they consider in their image-assessment procedure
- Familiarity with common imaging errors
Why this matters:
From instructing patients to remove jewelry to ensuring they provide informed consent, your radiologic technologists’ meticulousness in preparing patients is critical for patients’ safety and a procedure’s success. This question will provide insight into your candidate’s attention to detail and adeptness at sticking to protocols and checklists.
What to listen for:
- A detailed explanation of how to screen patients for devices and medical conditions that could interfere with examinations or compromise safety
- Mentions of using checklists and protocols as guides
- Great answers will stress the importance of clear communication with patients
Why this matters:
Depending on your organization’s needs, you may be seeking candidates who can perform a range of radiologic exams or have specialized in areas such as ultrasound or CT scans. This question will help you learn more about the candidate’s experience with the equipment, procedures, and patients they’ll be working with.
What to listen for:
- Clinical experience, beyond routine training, in the procedures they’ll perform
- Up-to-date knowledge of the latest radiographic equipment and techniques
- References to pertinent certifications and licenses
Why this matters:
One of the most difficult parts of a radiologic technologist’s job is working with patients afflicted by pain or sickness. An ideal candidate should be perceptive to verbal and non-verbal cues and conduct radiographic procedures in a way that causes minimal discomfort and doesn’t induce further harm.
What to listen for:
- Examples in which the candidate prioritized the patient’s feelings and comfort while conducting the required procedures
- Mentions of techniques and procedures that help minimize discomfort for patients
- Great candidates will demonstrate an exceptional ability to empathize and a caring disposition
Why this matters:
The quality and accuracy of a radiologist’s work are highly dependent on the images and data that radiographic technologists collect. You need a candidate who is not afraid to ask questions — even when it may be inconvenient or uncomfortable — and prioritizes following orders and providing accurate information.
What to listen for:
- Great answers will convey a thorough understanding of the collaborative relationship between radiographers and radiologists
- Examples that illustrate an attention to detail and a commitment to excellence
- A solid understanding of how chains of command work
Why this matters:
Equipment malfunctions are a routine part of any radiologic technologist’s job. The candidate should be able to troubleshoot and judge when a situation merits outside technical support. This question will provide further insight into the candidate’s familiarity with imaging equipment and their approach to problem-solving.
What to listen for:
- Examples that demonstrate an organized approach to problem-solving
- Experience troubleshooting common equipment malfunctions
- Top candidates will emphasize personal and patient safety
Why this matters:
It’s not uncommon for patients to get anxious during radiographic procedures — especially ones that may take a long time such as MRIs and CT scans. Your radiographic technologist should project warmth, empathy, and confidence and have the ability to communicate the details of radiographic procedures in clear and simple language.
What to listen for:
- Familiarity with common patient anxieties
- An approach where your candidate identifies the patient’s fears and addresses them with the right information and coping strategies
- Examples that highlight the importance of maintaining good communication with patients
Why this matters:
Radiologic technologists often deal with heavy workloads, examining multiple patients daily. Your candidates should be prepared to work under pressure without compromising on safety and the quality of their work. They should know how stress and pressure can increase the likelihood of mistakes and take steps to address these factors preemptively.
What to listen for:
- Mentions of tools that help them stay on top of their duties while ensuring safe operations, such as checklists
- Top candidates will highlight areas where they take extra precautions, such as instrument calibration
- Willingness to ask for help from teammates when handling large workloads
Why this matters:
As healthcare professionals, radiologic technologists should be prepared to act as first responders during medical emergencies. This question will help you assess how your candidate might react during an emergency and their ability to walk you through basic first aid procedures. The best candidates will have a basic life support (BLS) certification, but a CPR certification may suffice depending on the position.
What to listen for:
- Answers that convey your candidate’s confidence in handling medical emergencies
- Examples that demonstrate strong command of first aid and basic life support procedures
- References to CPR or BLS certifications
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