Starting as a new imaging technologist can feel overwhelming, especially when stepping into areas like fluoroscopy that you may not have encountered before. Knowing how to prepare, stay engaged, and make a strong impression can help ease the transition. If you’re heading into your first fluoroscopy rotation, here are some practical tips to keep yourself busy, gain experience, and stand out as a proactive team member.
1. Understanding Fluoroscopy: What You Need to Know
If you’re unfamiliar with fluoroscopy, here’s a quick breakdown:
🔸 What is Fluoroscopy? – Unlike traditional X-rays, which capture a single static image, fluoroscopy provides a live, real-time moving image of the patient’s anatomy.
🔸 How Does It Work? – The X-ray tube is positioned under the table, and the image receptor (a specialized detector) converts the X-ray information into a dynamic image displayed on a screen.
🔸 Common Fluoro Exams – Many fluoroscopy procedures involve contrast media, such as barium studies for swallowing evaluations or enemas for lower GI imaging. The contrast highlights internal structures, making them visible on the screen.
🔸 Fluoroscopy in Surgery – Mobile fluoroscopy units, known as C-arms, work similarly and are used during surgical procedures to provide real-time imaging guidance.
2. Learn the Equipment
Familiarizing yourself with the fluoroscopy equipment is crucial for efficiency and confidence. Spend time learning:
⚙️ What Each Button Does – Know how to adjust settings like collimation, contrast, and magnification.
🔄 How to Tilt the Table – Many fluoro procedures require table tilting, such as upper GI studies or myelograms. Learn the controls.
💾 How to Save & Store Images – Understand how to properly capture and archive images for radiologist review.
📉 Adjusting Fluoro Rate for Radiation Safety – Learn how to modify pulse rates to reduce dose while maintaining adequate image quality. Lower rates mean less radiation exposure; higher rates provide more detail in real-time.
The more comfortable you are with the equipment, the more smoothly your exams will go!
3. Set Up for Each Exam
One of the most valuable things you can do as a new tech is preparing for each fluoroscopy exam before it starts. It may not seem like much, but it offers several advantages:
✅ Familiarity with Equipment – Setting up helps you learn where supplies are stored and how the room is arranged.
✅ Demonstrates Initiative – The more proactive you are, the more trust you’ll build with your team.
✅ Helps You Learn the Flow – Reviewing the schedule and preparing for the cases will make the day run more smoothly.
Even if you’re not performing the exam, observing how the technologist positions the patient, operates the equipment, and communicates with the radiologist will deepen your understanding.
4. Volunteer for Lead Apron Checks
Each year, departments are required to perform lead apron checks, where they scan every protective apron for defects or cracks. Volunteering for this task has a huge benefit for new technologists:
🔹 Hands-On Experience with the X-ray Tube – Moving the tube, positioning it properly, and working with imaging plates will improve your technical skills.
🔹 Familiarity with Radiation Safety Procedures – Understanding lead protection protocols is a key part of being an imaging professional.
🔹 Builds Confidence with Equipment – The more time you spend handling the equipment, the more comfortable and competent you’ll become.
Ask your department when they’ll be performing lead apron checks and see if you can assist—your team will appreciate the extra hands, and you’ll gain valuable experience.
5. Engage with Patients and the Team
In addition to technical skills, one of the best ways to make a positive impact as a new tech is by engaging with both patients and your team:
👥 Calling in Patients – If you're comfortable with patient interaction, offer to call in and prep patients for their exams. This helps the team move efficiently and gives you experience in patient communication.
🩺 Observing & Asking Questions – Never hesitate to ask questions—whether about equipment settings, radiation safety, or best practices.
🛠 Hands-On Learning – The more hands-on experience you get early on, the more confident you’ll become when it’s your turn to run the exam.
Final Thoughts
Starting in a new clinical setting can be intimidating, but taking small proactive steps will help you learn faster and gain respect from your team. By setting up for exams, assisting with department tasks, and engaging in patient care, you’ll not only improve your skills but also make a lasting impression.
For more tips on excelling as a new tech, check out our blog, designed to help students and new technologists thrive in their careers. Stay tuned for more posts, and don’t forget to join the ImagingStaff community to connect with other imaging professionals!