Frequency of procedures performed by entry-level radiographers

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination in radiography is designed to assess the knowledge and cognitive skills typically required of an entry-level staff technologist. The ARRT uses the task inventory questionnaire, a common method of practice analysis, to update certification examination content and clinical competency requirements.

To determine which procedures entry-level radiographers are responsible for performing and how often they perform those procedures.

A practice analysis questionnaire consisting, in part, of 273 specific radiographic procedures was sent to 2400 registered radiologic technologists. Respondents were asked to indicate if they were responsible for each procedure and, if so, the frequency with which they performed the procedure. The questionnaires from 445 entry-level (0 to 3 years of experience) respondents were analyzed to identify frequently performed procedures.

Posteroanterior and lateral chest radiographs were the most frequently performed procedures, conducted on average 4.7 to 4.8 times per week; gallbladder examinations, along with some tomograms, were the least often or never performed procedures. Summary Results of these findings were used to modify the ARRT examination in radiography to better reflect the workplace. Based on the data, a list of 140 specific radiographic procedures is now included in the ARRT 2005 Content Specifications for the Examination in Radiography.