Technical Standards

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, in compliance with The American Disabilities Act requires radiography programs to have set "technical standards." These standards are defined as "non-academic criteria used for admission to and participation in a program or activity." These standards can include physical capabilities. Blinn College District has chosen to set guidelines to make students aware of the demands they will encounter during the clinical part of the radiography program.

Should you NOT be able to meet the following demands, you may not be permitted to continue in the program, for your own safety and that of the patient.

These standards are not conditions of admission to the program. Each applicant for the Radiologic Technology Program however, prior to application, should review these requirements to determine their abilities to successfully fulfill the clinical competency requirements and physical demands of the profession.

The program requires the capability to demonstrate the following physical activities:

1. Assist with lifting/moving patients from wheelchairs, stretchers, and beds to the x-ray table and vice versa.
2. Lift, carry, and push/pull bulky, heavy equipment. i.e. imaging receptors, portable x-ray equipment, etc.
3. Reach overhead to move a ceiling mounted x-ray tube or other equipment.

The program requires the capability to demonstrate the following audible abilities:

1. To detect and respond to verbal communication and acoustic signals on medical devices and equipment. (corrective devices may be used)
2. Communicate, orally and in writing, instructions and directions to/from patients and other healthcare personnel.

The program requires the capability to demonstrate the following manual dexterity and fine motor skills:

1. The ability to manipulate equipment, position patients, and handle sterile supplies without compromise.
2. The ability to manipulate small knobs or controls on x-ray generators.
3. To prepare needles and syringes for injection.

The program requires the capability to demonstrate the following visual acuity:

1. The ability to determine subtle differences in gradual changes in blacks, grays, and whites for purposes of assessing images for technical quality. (Corrective lenses are permitted)
2. The ability to read a requisition for information regarding the requested x-ray.

The program requires the capability to demonstrate the following:

1. Rapid, simultaneous mental and muscular coordination; to adapt procedures and techniques of activities to accommodate changing status of a patient’s condition/mobility.
2. Tolerance for exposure to chemicals used in photographic film processing and/or cleaning materials.
3. Ability to apply and wear protective gloves for the purpose of universal or standard precautions.