The Central Ray Podcast

Bremsstrahlung Radiation: How the X-ray Beam Is Actually Built In this episode of The Central Ray Podcast , we shift focus from x-ray interactions within the patient to the origin of the x-ray beam itself—inside the tube. We break down how high-speed electrons are converted into x-ray photons at the anode through Bremsstrahlung radiation , the primary mechanism responsible for x-ray production in...

In this episode of The Central Ray Podcast , we break down Compton scatter as one of the primary interactions in diagnostic radiography and a major contributor to both image degradation and radiation exposure . We begin by framing the three possible outcomes of an x-ray photon interacting with the patient— transmission, absorption, and scatter —before focusing on how Compton interactions occur at...

Understanding binding energy is essential for understanding how x-rays interact with matter and how technique selection impacts image quality. In this episode, we break down binding energy into clear, practical terms. You will learn why inner-shell electrons are more tightly bound than outer-shell electrons, how electrostatic attraction and shielding influence electron behavior, and how photon ene...

In this episode, we break down the foundational concepts of atomic structure and ionization —and more importantly, how they directly impact the images you produce as a radiologic technologist. Understanding the structure of the atom is not just theoretical—it explains how x-rays interact with matter , why tissues appear differently on an image, and how your technical decisions influence image qual...

Episode Notes Why X-Rays Pass Through Some Tissues and Not Others In this episode of The Central Ray Podcast , Ryan Ross explores the concept of x-ray attenuation and how it allows radiographs to display contrast between different anatomical structures. Topics covered include: • What attenuation means in radiographic imaging • Why tissues absorb x-rays differently • The role of density and atomic...

In this Central Ray Podcast episode, the we discuss upper extremity radiographic procedures essential for the ARRT Radiography Registry Review. Key topics include proper positioning, anatomy, patient adaptations, and image evaluation criteria for fingers, hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, humerus, and shoulder girdles. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the principles behind sta...

In this episode of the Central Ray Podcast, Ryan Ross delves into the proposed significant forthcoming revisions to radiography education and certification requirements laid out by the ARRT. Highlighting the findings from the recent practice analysis, Ryan discusses updates to the radiography exam content, including patient care procedures, image production, and the integration of modern technolog...

In this episode, we explore the essential components of fluoroscopic GI studies , from esophagrams to barium enemas. We’ll break down the most common positions , centering points , and clinical indications used in upper GI, small bowel, and lower GI procedures. Whether you’re preparing for the ARRT exam or brushing up for clinical practice, this focused review will help you understand how patient...

In this episode, we break down the Head, Spine, and Pelvis procedures section of the ARRT Radiography Content Specifications. Join me as we walk through the key projections and positioning techniques, review the critical anatomy you need to identify, discuss how to adapt procedures for trauma, limited mobility, and other patient conditions, and learn how to evaluate your images for accuracy — incl...

In this episode of The Central Ray Podcast , we break down everything you need to know about pharmacology for the ARRT Radiography Registry Exam and your daily practice as a technologist. From taking a thorough medication history and understanding contrast media types, to safe administration techniques, dose calculations, and recognizing adverse reactions — we cover the essentials with clear expla...

In this episode of The Radiographer’s Review , we dive into one of the most essential — and most tested — areas of radiographic practice: infection control . Whether you’re preparing for the ARRT Radiography exam, completing your CQR requirements, or just brushing up on best practices, this episode will reinforce the principles that keep you and your patients safe. Join [Your Name] as we walk thro...

In this episode of the Radiography Review Podcast , we break down the essential knowledge you need to handle medical emergencies confidently — whether you’re prepping for the ARRT Radiography exam or brushing up for your CQR. We’ll cover how to recognize and respond to non-contrast allergic reactions, cardiac and respiratory arrest (including CPR and AED basics), physical injuries and trauma, and...

This episode reviews the ergonomics and monitoring section of the ARRT Patient Care content specifications. We cover principles of body mechanics, safe patient transfer techniques, and the use of assistive devices to prevent injury. We also discuss assisting patients with medical equipment like IVs, oxygen, catheters, and tracheostomies, as well as monitoring vital signs, recognizing physical sign...

This episode reviews the interpersonal communication section of the ARRT Patient Care content specifications. We discuss modes of communication — verbal, written, and nonverbal — and how to adapt to challenges like language barriers, cultural differences, impairments, age, and emotional state. We also cover strategies to improve patient understanding, effective patient education before and after p...

In this episode, we review the ethical and legal aspects section of the ARRT Patient Care content specifications. Key topics include respecting patients’ rights — such as informed consent, confidentiality, and autonomy — and understanding the AHA Patient Care Partnership. We also cover essential legal concepts like verification, negligence, malpractice, legal doctrines, and proper documentation. F...

Walter and I worked alongside each other at Vanderbilt in Ortho Trauma. Walt has been a radiologic technologist for 42 years with over 20 years spent exclusively in the OR working C-arm. In this episode we discuss some of the common challenges found within surgical radiography, especially complex orthopedic trauma procedures.

In this episode I discuss a few of the issues with C-arm. I discuss the lack of training offered at the college level, the 'entry-level' perception of C-arm imaging, and briefly mention the idea of developing Surgical imaging as it's own advanced practice credential. To link to the C-arm training phantom mentioned go to www.thecentralrayoodcast.com or you can see my YouTube channel www.youtube.com...

This episode features an interview with Dr. Derick Davis and his "World of Pain" podcast. Dr. Davis is a clinical Fellow based out of Boston, practicing pain management. Dr. Davis is a huge advocate of fluoroscopy and education around its use. In this conversation, Ryan provides the technologists perspective on operating the C-arm in procedures requiring high precision. Topics also discussed are a...

Clinical rotations can be daunting for the student radiographer. In this episode I share a valuable piece of advice I was given on how to get hired at my clinical site.

Join Ryan as he discusses various topics in the field of radiography. With a unique perspective and background that includes c-arm imaging specialist, diagnostic radiographer, quality compliance coordinator, level one trauma diagnostic x-ray manager, and now an educator, Ryan shares his perspectives and focuses on quality and advocacy for the x-ray technologist. This episode we open the discussion...

Join Ryan as he discusses various topics in the field of radiography. With a unique perspective and background that includes c-arm imaging specialist, diagnostic radiographer, quality compliance coordinator, level one trauma diagnostic x-ray manager, and now an educator, Ryan shares his perspectives and focuses on quality and advocacy for the x-ray technologist. This week's thought is how our pers...

In this first episode I discuss reject and repeat analysis and how I used the information on a reject & repeat report to advocate for additional staffing and more focused training of technologists. Repeat data provided by digital imaging systems offers a huge amount of analytical data that can be incredibly insightful for a true quality improvement program. Hopefully this can provide a small w...