- knowledge of medicine and medical procedures
- knowledge of biology
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of English language
- thinking and reasoning skills
- the ability to read English
- excellent verbal communication skills
- concentration skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As a diagnostic radiographer, your could:
- produce and interpret high quality images of the body to identify and diagnose injury and disease
- screen for abnormalities
- take part in surgical procedures like biopsies (examining tissues to find the cause of disease)
As a therapeutic radiographer, you could:
- plan and give treatment using x-rays and other radioactive sources
- work closely with medical specialists to plan treatment of malignant tumours or tissue defects
- assess and monitor patients through treatment and follow-up
You may need to wear protective clothing and a uniform.
You could work in an NHS or private hospital or at a hospice.
Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.
With experience, you could become a sonography specialist, radiography team leader or consultant practitioner.
You could also take further qualifications to specialise in:counselling and palliative care; the use of certain techniques or equipment; working with specific groups of patients; research and teaching
You can find out more about a career in radiography from Health Careers and the The Society of Radiographers.