Exploring a career in healthcare? Two promising paths are radiology technician and registered nurse. Each role is unique, with different responsibilities, educational requirements, and career outlooks. This blog post will delve into the details of these two healthcare careers, helping you understand which might be the right fit for you.

Key Points

• Radiology Technicians, often graduates of radiology tech programs, specialize in capturing diagnostic images like an X-ray or an MRI. On the other hand, Registered Nurses provide direct patient care, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and offering health education.
• Both roles are crucial in the healthcare sector, Registered Nurses may find broader job opportunities across various healthcare settings while radiology technicians often find their niche in hospitals, diagnostic labs, or imaging centers.
• Going through radiology tech school can get you an associate's degree or certification, a process that typically takes about 2 years. If you're looking for radiology tech programs near you, many community colleges and technical schools offer these courses! Registered Nurses, on the other hand, need either an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing, which can take 2-4 years, followed by passing the national licensing examination.
• The average radiology tech salary stands at $76,020 per year, while registered nurses can expect an average salary of $86,070 per year.

What is a Radiology Technician and Registered Nurse?

• Radiology Technician: A radiology technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing diagnostic imaging procedures, such as x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. They work closely with radiologists, and physicians who interpret the images, to help diagnose and treat patients. Radiology technicians operate the imaging equipment, position patients correctly, and ensure that the images produced are of high quality. They also play a crucial role in maintaining patient safety by following proper radiation protection protocols.

• Registered Nurse: A registered nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care and coordinates the overall care plan for patients. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Registered nurses perform a wide range of tasks, including administering medications, monitoring patients' vital signs, assisting with procedures, and educating patients and their families about their health conditions. RNs also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to their patients.

Difference Between a Radiology Technician and a Registered Nurse

While both radiology technicians and registered nurses work in the healthcare field, there are some key differences between these two professions. Here are a few of the main distinctions:

• Scope of Practice: Radiology technicians primarily focus on performing imaging procedures and ensuring that high-quality images are produced. They work under the direction of radiologists and are responsible for patient positioning, operating the imaging equipment, and following safety protocols. Registered nurses, on the other hand, have a broader scope of practice and are involved in all aspects of patient care. They assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, and provide emotional support to patients and their families.

• Level of Responsibility: While both radiology technicians and registered nurses have important roles in patient care, registered nurses tend to have more responsibility and autonomy. They are often the primary point of contact for patients and are responsible for coordinating their care. RNs are also involved in making critical decisions about patient treatment and advocating for their patients' needs.

• Specialization Options: Radiology technicians can choose to specialize in a specific type of imaging, such as mammography or computed tomography (CT). This allows them to develop expertise in a particular area and potentially increase their earning potential. Registered nurses also have the option to specialize in various areas, such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care. Specializing can open up additional career opportunities and higher salary potential for RNs.

Radiology Technician vs Registered Nurse: Job Description

Radiology Technician: The job of a radiology technician involves operating imaging equipment to capture images of the internal structures of a patient's body. They work closely with radiologists to ensure that high-quality images are obtained for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Radiology technicians must follow strict safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure for both themselves and their patients. They also play a vital role in patient care by providing clear instructions and ensuring that patients are comfortable during imaging procedures.

as they are involved in all aspects of patient care. They assess patients' conditions, administer medications, monitor vital signs, and provide emotional support. RNs also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement care plans, educate patients and their families, and advocate for their patients' needs. Registered nurses are often responsible for coordinating the overall care of their patients and ensuring that all aspects of their care are delivered effectively and efficiently.

Radiology Technician vs Registered Nurse: Education and Training

Radiology Technician: To become a radiology technician, one must complete a radiology technician certificate program. These programs typically take two years to complete and result in an associate degree. Coursework includes anatomy, patient care, radiation physics, and imaging procedures. After completing the program, radiology technicians must also pass a certification exam to become registered or certified in their state. Some states may also require licensure.

Registered Nurse: The education and training required to become a registered nurse are more extensive. There are three main pathways to becoming an RN: diploma programs, associate degree programs, and bachelor's degree programs. Diploma programs are typically offered by hospitals and take about three years to complete. Associate degree programs are offered by community colleges and take about two years to complete. Bachelor's degree programs are offered by universities and take about four years to complete. After completing an approved nursing program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their license.

Radiology Technician vs Registered Nurse: Career Outlook and Salary

Career Outlook: Both radiology technicians and registered nurses can expect to see strong job growth in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increased demand for diagnostic imaging procedures.

The employment of registered nurses is also projected to grow 6 percent during the same period, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by factors such as an aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases.

Salary: The salary potential for radiology technicians and registered nurses can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and location. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $73,410 as of May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,020, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $102,380. For registered nurses, the median annual wage was $86,070 as of May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $63,720, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $132,680.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is harder, RadTech or Nursing?

In simple terms, nursing school might be seen as harder than radiology technician school. This is because nursing students have to spend more time gaining practical experience and need a more detailed knowledge of the human body and medicine.

Which radiology modality makes the most money?

The top-earning job in the field of radiography is a Nuclear Medicine Technologist. This professional uses special radioactive drugs to create pictures of what's happening inside the body. These pictures help doctors figure out what's wrong and how to treat it. As for how much they make, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist can earn anywhere from $54,000 to $124,000 annually.

How much does nursing school cost?

• Associate Degree in Nursing (A.D.N.): These programs generally last two years. The cost can vary significantly based on the school's location and whether it's a public or private institution. You can expect to pay between $4,000 to $7,000 per year at a public college, totaling $8,000 to $14,000 for the entire program. If you opt for a private university, the cost can exceed $50,000. Some sources suggest that the average cost of ADN-RN programs is between $12,000 to $35,000.

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.): This is a four-year full-time program. The total cost can range from $35,000 to over $130,000, depending on whether the university is public or private and whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student. The average costs for in-state and out-of-state institutions are $9,596 and $27,457 per year, respectively. BSN-RN programs at public schools can cost between $40,000 to $80,000, while private schools may charge between $60,000 to $120,000.

• Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.): These programs can take one to two years to complete. The total cost can vary between $18,000 and $90,000, depending on similar factors as A.D.N. and B.S.N. programs. For some M.S.N. programs, particularly those at out-of-state and private universities, the cost can reach up to $100,000. The cost may be higher for part-time students due to the increased length of the program. To become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), you'll need a BSN and a 2-4 year master's degree, which can cost between $63,000 to over $200,000 in total.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.): The cost of a D.N.P. degree can vary based on several factors, including your highest level of education. A B.S.N.-to-D.N.P. program can take three to four years, while an M.S.N.-to-D.N.P. program typically takes around two years. The cost can range from around $9,000 to over $100,000, with part-time attendance or enrollment in a private university potentially increasing the cost.

How much does radiology technician school cost?

The cost of radiology technician school varies depending on the level of education you're pursuing.

For a certificate in radiology, you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $25,000. These programs typically take one to two years to complete. If you're considering an associate's degree in diagnostic medical radiology, the costs are a bit higher, ranging from $6,000 to $40,000 in total. These programs usually last between two to four years and there are lots of options for online radiology tech programs!

For those aiming for a bachelor's degree in radiology, the cost can range from $30,000 to $48,000. These programs are more comprehensive and typically span over several years. Remember, these are just estimates and the actual cost can vary based on a variety of factors including the school you choose to attend, your residency status, and other fees.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as a radiology technician or a registered nurse is a personal decision that should be based on your interests, strengths, and career goals. Both professions offer opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and provide job security and competitive salaries. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your individual preferences and the specific aspects of each profession that appeal to you. It is important to thoroughly research and consider all aspects of each career before making a decision. Once you're ready to make an informed decision, take your first step toward a fulfilling future with Dreambound!

Dreambound strategically offers its educational programs in diverse locations. To gain a thorough insight into the exciting opportunities within these two vocations, we encourage you to explore more detailed information by visiting:

• Radiology Technician in New Mexico
• Registered Nurse in New Mexico