The Vital Role of a Band 5 Diagnostic Radiographer in the NHS
A Band 5 Radiographer (Diagnostic) plays a crucial frontline role within the NHS, operating advanced imaging equipment to support the accurate diagnosis of medical conditions. As a key part of multidisciplinary healthcare teams, these professionals work with patients of all ages, ensuring safety, comfort, and precision in imaging procedures like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Their work directly informs clinical decisions and improves patient outcomes, making them indispensable in modern healthcare delivery.
Typically, Band 5 Radiographers earn between £28,407 and £34,581 annually under the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale (2024–2025 rates), depending on experience and location. Beyond technical ability, NHS employers seek candidates with strong communication, empathy, teamwork, and patient care skills.
To help you prepare, here are 20 interview questions and model answers designed specifically for a Band 5 Radiographer (Diagnostic) role.
Top 20 NHS Band 5 Radiographer (Diagnostic) Interview Questions and Answers
Why did you choose diagnostic radiography as a career?
Answer: I’ve always had a keen interest in science and healthcare, and radiography allowed me to combine both. I’m passionate about using technology to support diagnosis and enhance patient care, and I appreciate the dynamic nature of the role in acute and outpatient settings.
How do you ensure patient safety during imaging procedures?
Answer: I always follow IR(ME)R guidelines, confirm patient identity and pregnancy status, use appropriate shielding, and adhere to the ALARA principle. I explain procedures clearly to reduce anxiety and ensure cooperation, which contributes to safety and image quality.
How do you deal with nervous or uncooperative patients?
Answer: I use a calm, empathetic tone, ensure privacy, and explain procedures in simple terms. Building rapport helps reduce anxiety. I also involve family or carers when appropriate and adjust my approach based on patient needs.
What imaging modalities are you trained in?
Answer: I’m fully trained in general X-ray and mobile imaging, with clinical experience in CT and basic fluoroscopy. I’m also keen to pursue further training in MRI and interventional radiography.
How do you prioritise workload in a busy department?
Answer: I assess urgency, patient condition, and clinical need. For example, trauma or inpatient scans take precedence over routine outpatients. I maintain communication with colleagues to coordinate effectively and ensure optimal patient flow.
Can you explain the importance of radiation protection?
Answer: Radiation protection safeguards patients, staff, and the public from unnecessary exposure. This includes using lead aprons, exposure monitoring badges, signage, and equipment checks. Adhering to protocols ensures compliance and patient safety.
Describe a time you worked under pressure.
Answer: During a night shift, we had a major trauma case requiring multiple urgent scans. I stayed focused, delegated where appropriate, and worked efficiently with the trauma team. Prioritising tasks and maintaining communication helped me manage the situation calmly.
What are the core values of the NHS, and how do you align with them?
Answer: The NHS values include respect, compassion, commitment to quality, improving lives, and working together. I align with these by treating all patients with dignity, striving for clinical excellence, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
How do you maintain image quality in challenging circumstances?
Answer: I adapt exposure factors, use immobilisation aids, and adjust positioning. For uncooperative patients, I may modify the technique while still aiming for diagnostic-quality images, always noting any limitations in the report.
How do you handle confidential information?
Answer: I strictly adhere to GDPR and Caldicott principles. I only access patient data when necessary for care, keep records secure, and never discuss cases in public or non-secure settings.
How would you respond to a patient complaint?
Answer: I would listen actively, acknowledge their concern, and apologise if appropriate. I’d try to resolve the issue promptly and escalate it to a senior or follow departmental policy for formal complaints.
How do you stay current with radiography developments?
Answer: I subscribe to journals like Radiography and attend CPD events. I also reflect on clinical practice and actively seek feedback to improve my skills. I’m registered with the HCPC and committed to lifelong learning.
What do you do if a colleague is not following safety procedures?
Answer: Patient and staff safety comes first. I’d address the issue professionally by discussing it with them directly if appropriate or escalating it to a supervisor following the whistleblowing or incident reporting policy.
How would you explain a CT scan to a patient who is anxious?
Answer: I’d use clear, non-technical language to describe what to expect, reassure them about the process, highlight that it’s painless, and answer any questions. I’d check for contraindications and offer reassurance throughout.
What steps would you take if equipment fails during a scan?
Answer: I’d stop the procedure, inform the patient, document the issue, and follow equipment fault protocols. I’d liaise with the engineer or senior staff and arrange for the patient to be rebooked if needed.
How do you ensure accuracy in patient identification?
Answer: I use the three-point check: name, date of birth, and address or hospital number, cross-referencing with the referral form and PACS. I confirm verbally with the patient or their guardian if able.
How do you manage infection control?
Answer: I follow hand hygiene, wear appropriate PPE, and clean equipment after each use. I adhere to infection control protocols and isolate patients if required to prevent cross-contamination.
Describe a situation where you had to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Answer: While working in A&E, I collaborated with doctors, nurses, and porters to quickly scan and diagnose a patient with suspected internal bleeding. Clear communication and mutual respect ensured effective teamwork and swift intervention.
What are your long-term career goals?
Answer: I aim to specialise in cross-sectional imaging, particularly CT and MRI, and pursue postgrad study. Eventually, I’d like to mentor junior radiographers and contribute to service improvement initiatives.
Why do you want to work for our NHS Trust?
Answer: Your Trust is known for innovation and patient-centred care. I’m impressed by your radiology department’s investment in training and technology, and I’d be proud to contribute to a team committed to clinical excellence and compassion.
Interview Coaching Encouragement and Final Tips
Nailing an NHS Band 5 Radiographer (Diagnostic) interview requires more than memorising answers—you must demonstrate genuine empathy, professionalism, and a clear understanding of your role in the wider healthcare system. Reflect on your clinical experiences, be honest about your strengths and learning areas, and always relate your answers back to patient care and safety.
Here are some final tips:
Practice with a peer or mentor to build confidence.
Research the Trust thoroughly—tailor your answers to their values and services.
Dress professionally and arrive early.
Bring a few questions to ask the panel—it shows initiative and engagement.
You’ve already taken the first step by preparing. Believe in your training, trust your instincts, and let your dedication to patient care shine through. You’ve got this!
