What disorders may be diagnosed using a transvaginal ultrasound?

"A transvaginal ultrasound may be used to diagnose fibroid tumors or cysts on the ovaries, to help find a displaced IUD, or to visualize kidney stones. The bladder is also visible on this ultrasound which allows some urinary abnormalities to be detected."

Ultrasounds are used to examine different areas of the body. The name of a type of ultrasound will tell the radiographer what structures are to be examined. For example, a transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to make pictures of the organs inside the pelvis. The interviewer wants to know that you understand possible diagnoses that may occur as a result of this test.

"Abnormality of the structure of the fallopian tubes or uterus can be seen with a transvaginal ultrasound. Additionally, pelvic inflammatory disease, also known as PID, which is an infection of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes."

"Polycystic ovary, endometrial hyperplasia, pelvic inflammatory disease, early ectopic pregnancy."

How would you respond to an emergency situation at work?

"That really depends on the situation. I always try to remember to remain as calm as possible and report to my designated area as quickly as possible and follow emergency protocol."

Depending on the situation, you will want to respond quickly and make yourself available to assist the doctor in any way you can. Be aware of the surroundings and also observe the patient. Your best response will be one where you are sensitive to the situation by listening closely to the doctor and nurses involved. There may not be anything you can do to help, but if you get in the way, you could definitely create more problems. Ask what you can do and pay attention. If you need to step aside, be respectful and understanding.

"If an emergency were to arise, I would wait patiently for the doctors orders and assist her or him in whatever she or he needs."

"There can be any number of emergency situations in a healthcare facility, so how I would respond would be dependent upon what type of emergency it is. First and foremost is the safety of patients and employees. I would make sure no one is in immediate danger and follow any emergency protocol, per facility instructions."

If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you look for in a candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?

"If I were hiring someone, I would look for someone who is passionate about the job and about patient care. I also feel that being approachable and willing to learn is very important."

There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are important to perform this job. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.

"I believe that honesty is important no matter what job title a person holds. I have found that being honest with people creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities, I feel, are essential when building rapport with patients and co-workers."

"We all possess different qualities and that is what makes a great team. If I were responsible for interviewing and hiring new employees,I would look for someone who has a genuine interest in the job and a desire to grow and learn. None of us knows every thing there is to know about each disease or treatment. Being willing to learn and share what we've learned with one another makes us a better team and benefits our patients and those who will need care in the future."

Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information.

"I am expected to keep all information confidential every day, so there is not just one instance that I can refer to. I believe in practicing within legal and ethical bounds and keeping patient's confidence is one way I do that."

Working within the medical career field you are trusted with sensitive information each day. Don't fall into this trap and answer this question with a story containing confidential information, people will view your answer negatively and view you as not being trustworthy. If you choose to tell about a situation be sure to be vague and not use names or too many details.

"I'm trusted with confidential information every day. I make a point to leave my work at work and not discuss patients outside of the office. By not discussing confidential information about the patients I'm ensuring that I'm not breaking any rules and giving information to those that are not on a need to know basis."

"Every day I work is an example of me being trusted with confidential information. HIPAA regulations were set in place with good reason and I appreciate the idea behind them. I strive to stay well within the bounds of legality with regard to patient privacy."

"I once had a young lady who had an abortion and didn't want her parents to know about it. Her parents brought her to the hospital and requested to know what was wrong with her. But since she is an adult and said I shouldn't tell her parents anything, I simply did the scan, wrote her report, sealed it, and sent them to the doctor that referred them."

Have you ever worked in an environment in which your co-workers were from diverse backgrounds?

"The largest diverse group I worked with was probably when I did my clinical rotation at University Medical Center. I was afforded the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, religions, and professional backgrounds. It gave me an eye-opening experience of how many wonderful people there are!"

In an industry as large as healthcare, diversity among peers is inevitable. To be successful, it is crucial to learn how to work with a diverse group of people. Some people are intimidated when faced with learning new cultures and beliefs, but in the healthcare industry, it is crucial to provide effective care. The interviewer wants to know that you are open to meeting and learning about new people and becoming an integral part of the team. Be positive with your response.

"The diversity of specialty areas is something I love about the healthcare field. I like the idea of being in a career that challenges me to learn and grow. I believe we all have something that we can contribute to others and I like to embrace the diversity among those that I work with."

"Yes, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. I think one of the great things about the healthcare industry is that we have people from all backgrounds and walks of life who come together with the common interest of caring for others. I try to take advantage of opportunities to meet people and learn about them as much as possible."

What would you describe as your biggest weakness?

"One of my weaknesses is that I often get nervous around people I don't know. I know we all do that to a certain degree, but for me, it has become something that I am aware of. I now try to attend social activities where I know there are going to be opportunities to meet new people so that I can overcome social anxiety."

This is probably one of the most dreaded questions in a job interview. Answering this question requires self evaluation and honesty. Remember, whatever weakness you decide to share, make sure it is not a key characteristic needed to perform your job as a radiographer.

"I think one of my biggest weaknesses is that I can get sidetracked easily. I recognize that in myself and have made a conscious effort to plan my day as much as possible and to stay on target."

"My biggest weakness has got to be that I take on too many projects at once. While being involved and participating in various things is fun and can be good for a person, I tend to take on several things and then leave some projects unfinished. I have begun to limit myself to only taking on a few projects at a time so that I can devote the necessary time to staying on task."

What are some different types of ultrasound images?

"A doppler ultrasound is used to check for proper blood flow in vessels. 3D ultrasounds take 2d ultrasound images and project them into three-dimensional representations."

Ultrasounds are used for various reasons. Depending on the reason for a test, different types of images are used. There are four types of ultrasound images. The interviewer wants to know that you have an understanding of these types of images. Share your knowledge.

"There are a couple of different types of images that can be used, and the test ordered will determine which one isThe most commonly used ultrasound picture is a series of flat, two-dimensional cross section images of the scanned tissue. It is referred to as a 2D ultrasound."

"A 2D ultrasound consists of a group of flat, two-dimensional cross section images of a scanned structure. 3D ultrasounds project 2D images and project them into three dimensional images. 4D ultasounds are created by updating 3d ultrasound images in rapid succession. Finally, doppler ultrasounds evaluate blood flow as it moves through blood vessels."

Can you think of a time that you had a disagreement with a boss or co-worker, and if so, how was it resolved?

"I am a pretty easy-going person and do my best to avoid conflict. Like anyone else, I am sure there have been times that a co-worker and I have had a difference of opinion, but there has never been an instance that the disagreement was something that would have interfere with my work."

Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of having a disagreement about something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Sharing a personal experience is OK, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.'

"I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or co-worker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers, but really like to think of myself as more of a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."

"I think the most common disagreement between myself and others have involved our personal feelings about how healthcare should be carried out. However, I have learned, as have most of the people that I have worked with, that while our opinions are important, plans of care are designated by strict guidelines and with the input of everyone on the care team as well as the patient. Learning to respect those guidelines and patient wishes usually resolves issues that arise."

What can you tell me about a bone density test?

"A bone density test can predict the chances of breaking a bone in the future, monitor for improvement of bone density, determine if an osteoporosis medicine is working, or diagnosis osteoporosis."

Aging has many effects on the body. Some of the results of aging on the skeletal system are loss of bone mass, increased bone fragility and increased risk of fracture. The only way to accurately diagnose osteoporosis is with a bone density test. Being able to detect the risk of a potential problem before it occurs is one advantage of advances with medicine. Share what you know about bone density tests with the interviewer.

"A bone density test is the only test that can diagnose osteoporosis before a broken bone occurs. This test helps to estimate the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone."

"About 40% of postmenopausal women in the U.S. have osteopenia (low bone density). An additional 7% have osteoporosis (substantially low bone density). One in three women and one of five men over the age of 50 will experience a bone fracture related to osteoporosis. Bone density tests help to predict the chances of a fracture of a bone before it occurs and is the only way to diagnosis osteoporosis before a fracture event occurs."

Salary is often commensurate with experience. How do you feel about someone with more experience than you having a higher salary but doing the same job?

"I don't have a problem with someone who has more experience than me making a higher salary. I respect the experience that others have and know that I will have to prove myself."

Most employers do offer higher salary incentives to get more seasoned employees. This is not meant to devalue a person's knowledge or experience, but rather paying for more experience. It is important to note that the interviewer is not saying you will definitely make less than someone with more experience. Many times this question is to see how you respond and how badly you want a position. If an employee is willing to put in the work and earn the pay increase, employers often see them as someone worth investing in. This is a good time to ask what the beginning salary is and discuss options that are negotiable such as benefits and paid time off.

"I realize that salaries are often determined by the amount of experience an applicant has. I appreciate the fact that employers recognize experience as a factor in determining pay and am willing to show that I am worthy."

"I understand that years of experience are often rewarded with higher earning. I feel, given the chance to demonstrate my knowledge and skills, you will find that I am capable of doing the job as well as some of the more experienced employees. Having said that, I will not turn down an offer of employment because of a difference in pay based on my present lack of experience. With that in mind, what benefits are available for someone coming on board with your company with my resume?"

Would you ever consider relocation? If so, what areas are you open to?

"I have done a bit of traveling and I am open to the idea of relocation. I would like to find a place where I can put down roots and grow with a company."

While relocation may not be a determining factor for employment, larger companies almost always ask this question. The important thing to remember is, if you are 100% confident that you are willing to relocate, answer yes. However, if there is any hesitation, there are ways to answer this question without an emphatic NO.

"I have never really thought about relocating. However, I think it would be something I would consider within reason. I would be interested in hearing what positions you have available and where they are located."

"I am definitely open to relocation. I love to travel and meet new people. Being able to do the work I love while also having the benefit of traveling and experiencing the opportunity to work in different facilities is something I would be excited to hear more about."

Do you have experience performing sonograms for obstetric patients?

"I have only done a few sonograms so far. I just finished school and did have an opportunity to assist with several and do a few independently. I look forward to learning more."

Sharing what procedures you are most familiar with will allow the interviewer to see where your strengths are and could help determine what area you are assigned to if offered a position. It is always important to remember, that if you do not have a lot of experience with a certain procedure or in a certain area, be honest. It's better to say that you don't have experience and show a willingness to learn rather than giving the impression that you are accomplished at a skill when you are not.

"I have done sonograms before. I enjoy them, but would really like the opportunity to do more and learn more about them and the different things that can be detected using a sonogram."

"I do have experience performing sonograms. I used to work with an OB/GYN physician and did all of his maternity testing. Unfortunately, there are times that the news is not always joyful. However, seeing the face of a new mother as she watches her baby's heartbeat on a screen is priceless. Sonograms are, by far, one of my favorite things to do."

"Yes. First, you introduce yourself and explain the procedure to the patient. Then the patient is asked to lie supine and expose the abdominal region down to the pelvic area. Then apply a small amount of gel and scan."

Radiographers in our facility often work on rotation. Are you prepared to work evenings, weekends, overtime and holidays as required?

"I am a single mom with two school-aged children. Ideally, the day shift would be a better fit for me. This would allow me to fulfill both my work and home responsibilities without a conflict."

Being flexible with the schedule you are willing to work is always a plus. However, many people work more than one job or have a one parent home which requires them to have a flexible schedule. Others simply prefer to work one shift rather than another. Being up front with the interviewer about what schedule suits your preference could help prevent conflict later on. It is easier to plan a schedule you can agree on than it is to fix problems that arise due to fear of being rejected. Be honest and direct.

"I am not married and have no children at this time. So, I am pretty flexible with my schedule. If I had a choice, I would prefer the late shift, as I am a bit of a night owl. However, I am excited about the opportunity to become a part of this team and am willing to work where I'm needed."

"Yes, I am prepared to work that type of schedule. My family and I always plan special events around my work schedule. Also, part of us giving back has always been that I like to offer to work some extra time for those who have small children or other responsibilities."

"I may not be able to work weekends and holidays because I may need to use those days to attend to family needs."

Do you feel you are capable of being a good team player?

"I definitely feel like I am capable of being a good team player. I am easy to get along with and am eager to learn from those with more experience."

Unless you work in a job where you have no human contact or interaction, being able to work well within a team is a crucial skill. Describe what makes you feel like you are a good team player to the interviewer.

"Yes, I do feel like I am capable of being a good team player. I enjoy working with others and want to always do my part to make the teamwork work."

"I really value being a part of a team that works well with together. I believe I always put forth an effort to be a strong part of any team I am working with. I think one main key is to remember that none of us knows everything there is to know and that if we are respectful of another's knowledge or experience it can make the team, as a whole, stronger."

What is the purpose of a carotid doppler ultrasound?

"Carotid ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the carotid arteries in the neck which carry blood from the heart to the brain. It evaluates blood flow through the vessel."

Being able to view vessels and the flow of blood, such as with a carotid ultrasound, is a great way for doctors to find narrowed vessels or other abnormalities in blood flow. TTell the interviewer, not only the part of the body this ultrasound examines, but what it is designed to detect.

"A carotid doppler ultrasound is used to check blood flow in the carotid artery."

"A carotid ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries deliver blood from the heart to the brain. Carotid ultrasound tests allow radiographers to identify blocked or narrowed carotid arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke."

What made you choose the field of radiology as a career?

"When I was a kid, I had an accident and broke my leg. I remember going to the doctor and him showing me the xrays and where my break was. I was excited to see that film and see what the inside of my body looked like. I knew from that time on that I wanted "

Interviewers always want to know what made you choose a specific career. Knowing that you are passionate about your choice will tell the interviewer that you will be passionate about the work you do. Remember, even if you knew that radiology would pay you well, do not let your answer appear as though your main reason for choosing this career was money.

"I have always been fascinated with the human body, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to work in a field that dealt with blood or body fluids. I thought radiology would give me an opportunity to learn about and care for patients while not being out of my comfort zone."

"There was never any other career choice for me. I have always enjoyed studying about the human body and the things that can happen inside of us that others can't see. I knew radiology would allow me to experience that every day and be able to, hopefully, help others by being a part of finding the source of problems so that physicians can implement plans or solutions."

Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months that may cause you to have to relocate or leave this job?

"I recently completed radiology school and became certified. My hope is to find a position that will allow me to work long term. I do not anticipate any significant changes that would affect that."

Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will give the interviewer an opportunity to evaluate two things: 1. what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and, 2. are you interested in having a long-term relationship within the company? Either way, being upfront and honest is always appreciated.

"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. My fiance' just passed the Bar exam here and has been offered an opportunity to join an existing law firm. Presently, our plans are to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our careers and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."

"I have no plans of relocating and all of my family live close by. I have traveled before and have come to a place in my life where I want to find a stationary position and grow with a company."

What structures are visible when a pelvic ultrasound is done?

"The uterus, fallopian tubes and bladder are a few structures that are visible with a pelvic ultrasound. In men, the prostate gland and seminal vesicles are also visible."

This is another question that will show the interviewer you have a clear understanding of anatomy, which is crucial for a radiographer. Being able to identify normal structures within the body helps a radiographer notice abnormalities, if they are present. Give some examples of what body structures may be visible.

"There are several structures that can be seen on a pelvic ultrasound. There are more organs present in the female body than the male, such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus. In both men and women, the bladder is visible."

"In a male patient, the bladder, prostate gland, and seminal vesicles are visible. In women, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, vagina, and bladder. In both female and male patients, the bladder is visible in a pelvic ultrasound."

What do you think are some good characteristics of a radiographer?

"A radiographer should definitely be kind and show genuine concern for patients. Being sick can be very stressful situation and showing concern often causes the patients to feel more comfortable."

When an interviewer asks a question like this, he is usually trying to see what characteristics or traits you may be 'bringing to the game,' so to speak. When you answer this question, try to think about what you would like to see in a person who is providing care for you or a loved one.

" I think a radiographer should be kind and sympathetic. Having to have an xray or ultrasound done can be frightening for some people and if I can make my patient feel at ease, I think that is an important characteristic."

"I believe a radiographer should be professional, but approachable. Dealing with sick people can be very stressful and requires a professional approach, but not so much that it leaves a patient feeling ill at ease."

"Excellent communication skills, polite and friendly, patient, and, most importantly, must have a good knowledge of his/her job."

What are possible side effects of using a contrast medium?

"Nausea, a metallic taste in the mouth, or a feeling of being flushed are common side effects of a contrast medium."

Being aware of possible side effects to a contrast medium helps a radiographer identify when a patient may be in distress. Radiographers are responsible for educating patients on possible side effects that could arise with the use of barium so that they will know what to report. The interviewer wants to know that you can identify possible problems so that appropriate action can be taken.

"The use of barium can cause side effects including itching, lightheadedness, or hives. It can also cause a feeling of being flushed or nauseated, as well as a metallic taste in the mouth."

"Common side effects of a contraste medium include a metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, feeling lightheaded, itching or hives. More severe reactions could include hypotension, anaphylactic shock, or cardiac arrest."

"Barium is a contrast medium that is delivered in a drink or an enema that can help reveal problems in the digestive system."

Often medications or solutions have to be administered to help deliver an accurate test result. These types of tests are often ordered when a view of an internal organ needs to be viewed to determine proper functioning. Being able to explain what a contrast medium, such as barium, is used for helps a radiographer to educate patients prior to an exam being performed.

"Barium sulfate is a contrast agent. It works by coating the inside of your esophagus, stomach, or intestines which allows them to be seen more clearly on a CT scan or other radiologic examination. It is used to help diagnose certain disorders of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines."

What abnormality can be seen on an xray?

"Several things can be seen on a chest xray. Among the most common are infections, such as pneumonia, an enlarged heart, and blocked vessels leading to the heart or lungs."

One of the first classes that a radiographer takes is anatomy. Understanding anatomical structures and their normal appearance is essential for a radiographer to identify an abnormality if one is present. The interviewer wants to know that you are able to distinguish the difference in a normal and abnormal xray.

"There are so many abnormalities that can be seen on an xray film. Some of the most common are infections of lung, such as pneumonia. When there is bone pain or the appearance of a malformation, an xray may be ordered to see if there are broken bones or deformities of bones or joints, as well."

"Radiologic technology makes the diagnosis of disorders such as broken bones or deformities possible. Additionally, soft tissue structures such as the liver, spleen or gallbladder can be visualized and determine if there are presence of gallstones. Also, pneumonia or tuberculosis are visible on a chest xray"

What colors do you expect to see on an xray and what do those colors represent?

"Structures that are visible on an x-ray can include dense materials, such as bone and metal. These appear white on X-rays. Air is also detectable on an x-ray in the lungs or in the abdominal cavity. Air appears black."

Correct identification of internal structures is an essential skill of a radiographer. Structures on an xray show up with different density/shades. The interviewer wants to know that you will be able to identify what you see on an xray.

"Generally three different color shades can be seen on an x-ray film. Fatty matter and muscle appear gray. Bones and other dense materials, such as metal appear white. An example of a metal or other dense material could be if a child swallows a coin. Air in the stomach, esophagus, or lungs appears black."

What disorders may be diagnosed using ultrasound technology?

"Some diagnosis that are made using an ultrasound include cysts or abnormal growths in the liver or spleen.Fatty liver can be diagnosed using an ultrasound."

While an ultrasound result is not a definitive diagnosis for some disorders, it is used in diagnosing others. When a physician writes an order for an ultrasound, the diagnosis code and type of test will tell the radiographer what he is looking for. The interviewer wants to know that you are aware of common diagnosis that may be detected while performing an ultrasound.

"Ultrasound technology can be used to help diagnose cysts or abnormal growths in the liver, spleen, or pancreas, abnormal enlargement of the spleen, fatty liver, gallstones or sludge in the gallbladder. It is also used to evaluate female disorders, such as fibroids, and to monitor the growth of a fetus during pregnancy."

"Fatty Liver, liver cirrhosis, gallbladder stones, kidney stones, cholecystitis, colitis, bowel obstruction, Polycystic ovaries, pelvic inflammatory disease."

How do you handle stressful situations?

"When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and do my best not to get distracted. I also like to make lists and cross off tasks as they are completed. That keeps me focused and aware of what I need to do next so that I don't become stressed."

Stress is inevitable and the interviewer knows that. He does not expect you to say that you are never stressed, but rather wants to see how you respond to stressful situations. If there is an experience you can refer to when describing your approach to stress resolution, share it.

"We all can probably think of a time that we experienced a stressful situation. I like to prepare myself in advance, as much as possible, for situations that may arise. For example, if I have several duties scheduled for a particular day, I make a list and prioritize the order that the duties need to be accomplished so that I can be goal focused. This has really helped me to not become overwhelmed and stressed."

"I think we all experience stress on different levels and from various triggers. For me, being self-aware has played a big role in my personal stress management. If I have things that I know need to be done on a specific day, I try to create a list and prioritize the order in which those things should be done. I also try to factor in time for things that may be unexpected, for instance an emergency blood draw, and try to stay focused on each assignment. Learning to stay focused is a big stress reliever in and of itself."

What are symptoms that may be reported that may cause a physician to order an xray of a bone?

"Pain is on of the most common indicators that something is wrong anywhere in the body. Complaints of bone or joint pain, swelling or tenderness and bruising are also common reasons ."

There are several reasons a physician may order an xray. Because all tests need an appropriate diagnosis code, the physician will to have documentation of subjective and/or objective symptoms. Share what you symptoms you would expect to be common when a bone injury is suspected.

What makes you think you will be successful at our organization?

"I feel I have the education and skills necessary to become an asset to your organization and I believe, given the opportunity, I can prove that."

Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you meet and exceed expectations with their organization. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.

"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."

"I believe my success with your organization will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I know all the key players in this region and stay informed of best practices."

Can an ultrasound determine if a growth is cancerous?

"While an ultrasound can give a more in depth view of an area of a suspected growth, it is not the only thing used to diagnose. It can show a growth that is specific to a cancer, but biopsies will then be ordered to give a final diagnosis."

The interviewer wants to know that you have an understanding of what a specific diagnostic test can tell you. Many people will answer this question quickly without realizing what the interviewer is asking. Notice the question is not if the ultrasound will show a growth, but 'is it cancerous.' Share your knowledge.

"An ultrasound can show a growth, but it cannot determine what the growth is caused by and whether it is cancerous or not."

"Ultrasounds can be used to try and get a better view of a suspected growth. There are many cancers, such as bone cancer, that are often seen on an xray, but a biopsy is still required to tell what type of cancer cell is present so that a plan of care can be established and implemented."

Tell me about a type of fracture that you may see on an xray.

"There are actually several types of fractures. A non-displaced fracture occurs when the bone cracks either part or all of the way through, but does move and maintains its proper alignment. When an open fracture occurs, the bone breaks through the skin. In some open fractures, the bone may stay exposed; in others, it may draw back into the wound and no longer be visible."

There are many types of fractures, but the main categories are displaced, non-displaced, open, and closed. Because of the unique properties of their bones, there are some defined fracture subtypes that present only in children. As a radiographer, identifying what type of fracture a patient is experienced is one of your responsibilities. The interviewer wants to know that you are able to differentiate between fractures.

"There are four main categories of fractures. Those categories are displaced, non-displaced, open, and closed. Displaced and non-displaced fractures refer to the alignment of the fractured bone. A closed fracture is when the bone breaks but there is no puncture or open wound in the skin. An open fracture is one in which the bone breaks through the skin; it may then recede back into the wound and not be visible through the skin."

"Fractures can be open or closed. Open fractures occur when the broken bone pierces through the skin at the site of injury. While the bone may recede back into the wound, it is still considered an open fracture. Closed fractures are any break in the bone that do not pierce through the skin. Children have higher incidence of fractures, but they are often less severe than adults. Because of the unique properties of their bones, there is a sub-type of fractures that occur only in children. Those fractures include: A greenstick fracture in which the bone is bent, but not broken all the way through, a buckle fracture results from compression of two bones driven into each other, and a growth plate fracture at the joint that can result in shorter bone length."

What can an ultrasound detect?

"An ultrasound is used to create images of soft tissue structures to see if there is any abnormality. Abnormalities may include cysts, tumors, and abnormal blood flow due to clogged arteries or alterations in vessel integrity."

Doctors employ ultrasound imaging in diagnosing a wide variety of conditions affecting the organs and soft tissues of the body, including the heart and blood vessels, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, uterus, ovaries, eyes, thyroid, and testicles. Radiographers are trained to know what where anatomical structures are located and to see abnormalities in those structures. The interviewer wants to know that you know possibilities of what may be detected when you perform an ultrasound.

"Ultrasounds may be used to capture images of soft tissue organs such as the gallbladder, liver, kidneys, pancreas, bladder, and other organs and parts of the body. These images are used to help determine if there is any abnormality, such as a growth or malformation. Ultrasound can also measure the flow of blood in the arteries to detect blockages."

"Ultrasound can detect abnormalities in different organs of the body, such as the liver, kidney, bowels, uterus, bladder, etc."

Radiographer Interview Questions

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1. What disorders may be diagnosed using a transvaginal ultrasound?
2. How would you respond to an emergency situation at work?
3. If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you look for in a candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?
4. Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information.
5. Have you ever worked in an environment in which your co-workers were from diverse backgrounds?
6. What would you describe as your biggest weakness?
7. What are some different types of ultrasound images?
8. Can you think of a time that you had a disagreement with a boss or co-worker, and if so, how was it resolved?
9. What can you tell me about a bone density test?
10. Salary is often commensurate with experience. How do you feel about someone with more experience than you having a higher salary but doing the same job?
11. Would you ever consider relocation? If so, what areas are you open to?
12. Do you have experience performing sonograms for obstetric patients?
13. Radiographers in our facility often work on rotation. Are you prepared to work evenings, weekends, overtime and holidays as required?
14. Do you feel you are capable of being a good team player?
15. What is the purpose of a carotid doppler ultrasound?
16. What made you choose the field of radiology as a career?
17. Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months that may cause you to have to relocate or leave this job?
18. What structures are visible when a pelvic ultrasound is done?
19. What do you think are some good characteristics of a radiographer?
20. What are possible side effects of using a contrast medium?
21. What is barium?
22. What abnormality can be seen on an xray?
23. What colors do you expect to see on an xray and what do those colors represent?
24. What disorders may be diagnosed using ultrasound technology?
25. How do you handle stressful situations?
26. What are symptoms that may be reported that may cause a physician to order an xray of a bone?
27. What makes you think you will be successful at our organization?
28. Can an ultrasound determine if a growth is cancerous?
29. Tell me about a type of fracture that you may see on an xray.
30. What can an ultrasound detect?

Radiographer Interview Questions

1. What disorders may be diagnosed using a transvaginal ultrasound?

2. How would you respond to an emergency situation at work?

3. If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you look for in a candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?

4. Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information.

5. Have you ever worked in an environment in which your co-workers were from diverse backgrounds?

6. What would you describe as your biggest weakness?

7. What are some different types of ultrasound images?

8. Can you think of a time that you had a disagreement with a boss or co-worker, and if so, how was it resolved?

9. What can you tell me about a bone density test?

10. Salary is often commensurate with experience. How do you feel about someone with more experience than you having a higher salary but doing the same job?

11. Would you ever consider relocation? If so, what areas are you open to?

12. Do you have experience performing sonograms for obstetric patients?

13. Radiographers in our facility often work on rotation. Are you prepared to work evenings, weekends, overtime and holidays as required?

14. Do you feel you are capable of being a good team player?

15. What is the purpose of a carotid doppler ultrasound?

16. What made you choose the field of radiology as a career?

17. Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months that may cause you to have to relocate or leave this job?

18. What structures are visible when a pelvic ultrasound is done?

19. What do you think are some good characteristics of a radiographer?

20. What are possible side effects of using a contrast medium?

21. What is barium?

22. What abnormality can be seen on an xray?

23. What colors do you expect to see on an xray and what do those colors represent?

24. What disorders may be diagnosed using ultrasound technology?

25. How do you handle stressful situations?

26. What are symptoms that may be reported that may cause a physician to order an xray of a bone?

27. What makes you think you will be successful at our organization?

28. Can an ultrasound determine if a growth is cancerous?

29. Tell me about a type of fracture that you may see on an xray.

30. What can an ultrasound detect?