17 Mammography Technologist Interview Questions and Answers

Mammography technologists, also called mammographers, are medical imaging professionals who specialize in using low-dose X-rays to produce images of the breast. These images, which are called mammograms, are used to detect and diagnose breast cancer and other breast diseases.

Mammographers must be licensed by the state in which they practice. Most states require completion of an accredited mammography program and passing of a national certification exam. Once you have met these requirements, you may be ready to start looking for a job.

When you’re ready to start interviewing for a mammography technologist job, you will need to be prepared to answer a variety of questions. This guide includes sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

Are you comfortable working with patients of all ages and backgrounds?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to work with a diverse group of patients. As mammography is often used as part of breast cancer screening, it’s important that you can communicate effectively and provide compassionate care to all types of patients. In your answer, try to highlight your interpersonal skills and how they help you connect with patients.

Example: “I have worked in the medical field for several years now, so I am quite comfortable working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. During my last job, I had the opportunity to work with many different types of patients, including those who were nervous or anxious about their procedure. I always make sure to explain each step of the process clearly and offer reassurance when needed.”

What are some of the most important skills you have to offer as a mammography technologist?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand what skills you have that make you a good candidate for the position. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific skills that are relevant to the job and how they can benefit the employer.

Example: “I believe my most important skill as a mammography technologist is my attention to detail. I am very thorough when performing all of my tasks, which helps me ensure that patients receive high-quality care. Another skill I have is problem solving. If something goes wrong during a procedure, I use my critical thinking skills to find a solution.”

How would you describe the relationship between a mammography technologist and a patient?

This question can help interviewers understand how you interact with patients and the importance of your role in their care. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific example from your experience as a mammography technologist that shows how important this relationship is.

Example: “I think the relationship between a mammography technologist and a patient is very important because we are often the first people they speak with about their diagnosis. I try to make sure that my interactions with patients are friendly and informative so that they feel comfortable asking questions or expressing concerns. In my last position, I had a patient who was nervous about her upcoming procedure. She asked me if I could explain what would happen during her exam again. I happily did so, and she left feeling more confident.”

What is your process for preparing a patient for a mammography exam?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you interact with patients and perform your job duties. Describe a specific process for preparing a patient, such as what steps you take to ensure they’re comfortable and ready for their exam.

Example: “I always start by introducing myself to the patient and explaining the procedure. I also explain that we’ll be taking images of their breasts from different angles so we can see any abnormalities. Then, I have them change into a gown and place their belongings in a locker. Next, I position the mammography machine over the patient’s chest and begin the exam.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to communicate bad news to a patient.

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle difficult situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you had to deliver bad news and the steps you took to make the situation as positive as possible for your patient.

Example: “When I was working in my previous position, I had a patient who came in for their annual mammogram. After reviewing her results, I noticed that she had an abnormality on one of her breasts. She became very upset after hearing this news, so I immediately called her primary care physician to discuss the issue further. They decided to schedule another mammogram for her right away to get a better look at the abnormality. We were able to determine that it wasn’t cancerous, which made her feel much better.”

If a patient is experiencing pain during a mammography exam, what is your process for determining the cause?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your diagnostic skills and ability to communicate with patients. Your answer should include steps for determining the cause of pain during a mammography exam, as well as how you explain the situation to the patient.

Example: “If a patient is experiencing pain during a mammogram, I first determine whether it’s due to the compression required for the procedure or if there are other factors causing the discomfort. If the pain is caused by the compression, I adjust the machine settings to reduce the pressure on the breast. If the pain persists after adjusting the machine, I may also reposition the patient to see if that alleviates the pain. If the pain continues, I will send the patient back to their primary care physician.”

What would you do if you noticed a suspicious lesion on a patient’s mammogram?

This question is a good way to assess your diagnostic skills and how you handle challenging situations. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure the patient’s safety and comfort while also following protocol.

Example: “If I noticed a suspicious lesion on a mammogram, I would immediately alert my supervisor so they could review the image with me. If it was urgent, we would call in another technologist for assistance. We would then discuss our findings with the radiologist who performed the initial exam. They would decide whether or not to rescan the area of concern. If the radiologist decided that there was no need to rescan, I would continue with the rest of the exam. However, if they decided to rescan, I would assist them by performing the procedure myself.”

How well can you read X-ray images?

This question can help interviewers assess your ability to read images and determine whether you have the necessary skills for this role. To answer, consider describing a time when you had to read an image or how you developed these skills.

Example: “I’ve always been good at reading X-ray images because I was one of those kids who could read before they started school. In my first job as a mammography technologist, I worked with a colleague who struggled to read images. She asked me to teach her how to read them, so we spent some time going over it together. Now she’s much better at reading images than I am.”

Do you have experience using digital imaging software to process mammography images?

Digital imaging software is a common tool used by mammography technologists to process images. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience using the specific software they use in their facility. Before your interview, read through the job description and look for any mention of digital imaging software. If it’s mentioned, try to find out which software the employer uses. In your answer, let them know that you have experience with that type of software.

Example: “I do have experience using digital imaging software to process mammography images. I worked at my previous job for two years before we switched from analog to digital imaging software. During that time, I learned how to use the new software to process images. Now, I am comfortable using both types of software.”

When performing a breast exam, how do you determine if a lump is normal or abnormal?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your diagnostic skills and ability to make important decisions. Your answer should include the steps you take when performing breast exams, as well as how you determine if a lump is normal or abnormal.

Example: “When performing a breast exam, I first look for any lumps in the breast tissue. If there are no lumps, I then check for changes in texture, color and size of the breast tissue. Next, I palpate the entire breast area looking for any abnormalities. Finally, I compare my findings with those from previous exams to see if anything has changed.”

We want to improve our compliance with the FDA’s Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines. How would you approach this as a mammography technologist?

The FDA’s Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines are a set of recommendations for mammography facilities to follow in order to ensure the highest quality care and patient safety. The guidelines include specific requirements for equipment, training, documentation and more. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of following these guidelines and can explain how you would implement them at your current facility or if hired by this one.

Example: “I am familiar with the FDA’s Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines as I have worked in several facilities where they were followed. In my experience, it is important to make sure all staff members are trained on the guidelines and know what to do when there is an issue. For example, if a technologist notices a problem with the equipment, they should report it immediately so it can be addressed before patients start their exam. It is also important to keep up-to-date records of any changes made to comply with the guidelines.

Describe your process for maintaining and cleaning mammography equipment.

This question is an opportunity to show your attention to detail and ability to follow protocols. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for cleaning equipment, as well as the frequency with which you perform this task.

Example: “I clean mammography equipment after every use, including before and after each patient. I start by removing any film from the screen and then wipe down the entire machine with disinfectant wipes. Next, I remove the cassette tray and clean it with alcohol swabs. Finally, I replace all of the components and run a final check on the machine.”

What makes you qualified to perform mammography exams?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the field and how it applies to the job. You can use this question to highlight any certifications you have, previous experience or other qualifications that make you a good fit for the role.

Example: “I’ve been performing mammography exams for five years now, and I’m certified in breast imaging by the American Board of Radiology. In my last position, I was responsible for training new employees on proper techniques and procedures, which makes me confident that I could help train others here as well. I also understand the importance of maintaining quality standards when performing these exams.”

Which types of mammography equipment have you used in the past?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with mammography equipment. You can answer this question by naming the types of mammography equipment you’ve used and describing how you use them.

Example: “In my previous position, I worked with digital imaging equipment and analog equipment. With digital equipment, I was able to perform a diagnostic exam on patients quickly because it’s more efficient than analog equipment. However, I preferred working with analog equipment because it allowed me to take high-quality images that were easy for radiologists to read.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of your job as a mammography technologist?

This question can help interviewers understand what you value about your work and how it impacts the patients you serve. When answering this question, consider which aspects of your job are most important to you personally and why. You may also want to mention any specific ways that you have helped improve or support these aspects in your previous roles.

Example: “The most important aspect of my job as a mammography technologist is ensuring that I am providing quality care for each patient who comes through our facility. For me, this means making sure that I am using the latest technology and techniques to ensure accurate results while being sensitive to the needs of each individual patient. In my last role, I developed a new system for tracking patient satisfaction surveys, which allowed us to identify areas where we could improve our service.”

How often do you perform maintenance on your mammography equipment?

This question can help an interviewer determine your level of experience with mammography equipment. If you have little to no experience, it’s important to highlight the steps involved in maintaining a machine and how often you perform them. If you’re experienced, you can discuss what maintenance you’ve performed in the past.

Example: “I perform regular maintenance on my machines every six months. I check for any loose wires or broken parts and make sure all the necessary tools are available. I also clean the inside of the machine thoroughly at least once per month. This helps ensure that the images I’m taking are clear and accurate.”

There is a discrepancy in a patient’s medical history that you were unaware of when they scheduled their appointment. How do you handle this?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to handle challenging situations and remain calm in the face of uncertainty. Your answer should demonstrate that you can use problem-solving skills to resolve issues quickly, while maintaining a positive attitude.

Example: “I would first apologize to the patient for any inconvenience caused by my mistake. Then I would contact the physician who ordered the mammogram to discuss the situation. If the doctor confirms there is an error in the medical history, I will reschedule the appointment as soon as possible. If the doctor cannot confirm or deny the discrepancy, I will proceed with the scheduled procedure and inform the patient of the situation after the exam.”