What Do MRI Technologists Do (including Their Typical Day At Work)

Job Description

MRI Technologists operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. Monitor patient safety and comfort, and view images of area being scanned to ensure quality of pictures. May administer gadolinium contrast dosage intravenously. May interview patient, explain MRI procedures, and position patient on examining table. May enter into the computer data such as patient history, anatomical area to be scanned, orientation specified, and position of entry. They also operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners.

Other tasks include:

• Select appropriate imaging techniques or coils to produce required images.
• Inject intravenously contrast dyes, such as gadolinium contrast, in accordance with scope of practice.
• Position patients on cradle, attaching immobilization devices if needed, to ensure appropriate placement for imaging.
• Conduct screening interviews of patients to identify contraindications, such as ferrous objects, pregnancy, prosthetic heart valves, cardiac pacemakers, or tattoos.
• Explain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures to patients, patient representatives, or family members.
• Provide headphones or earplugs to patients to improve comfort and reduce unpleasant noise.

We asked MRI Technologists how satisfied they are with their job. Here is what they said.

74% of them said they were satisfied with their job and 82% said they find that their job makes the world a better place or helps to make someone else’s life better.

Typical Day At Work

On a daily basis, MRI Technologists operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. They conduct screening interviews of patients to identify contraindications, such as ferrous objects, pregnancy, prosthetic heart valves, cardiac pacemakers, or tattoos.

A typical day for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist will also include:

• Provide headphones or earplugs to patients to improve comfort and reduce unpleasant noise.
• Explain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures to patients, patient representatives, or family members.
• Calibrate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) console or peripheral hardware.
• Select appropriate imaging techniques or coils to produce required images.
• Inject intravenously contrast dyes, such as gadolinium contrast, in accordance with scope of practice.

We asked some MRI Technologists a few questions to find out what else does their work day look like. Here is what we found.

Other responsibilities

Besides their typical day, MRI Technologists also request sedatives or other medication from physicians for patients with anxiety or claustrophobia. They may also conduct inventories to maintain stock of clinical supplies.

On a weekly to monthly basis, MRI Technologists Troubleshoot technical issues related to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner or peripheral equipment, such as monitors or coils. They might also Schedule appointments for research subjects or clinical patients.

In addition, they Instruct medical staff or students in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures or equipment operation.

Although specific duties may vary, many of them Attach physiological monitoring leads to patient’s finger, chest, waist, or other body parts.

To some MRI Technologists, it is also their responsibility to Operate optical systems to capture dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images, such as functional brain imaging, real-time organ motion tracking, or musculoskeletal anatomy and trajectory visualization.

Working life

Standard 40 hour work week

Regular schedule like a 9 to 5

In a typical work week as a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist, you can expect to work 40 hour work week.

Is this right for me

People who are suitable for this job tends to like work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They like working with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery..

They also like following set procedures and routines. They like working with data and details more than with ideas.

You can read more about these career personality types here.

Explore other careers