JOB SUMMARY Performs specialized technical duties that require the ability to set up computed tomography equipment, position patients, and acquire cross sectional diagnostic images of internal body structures for the detection, diagnosis, and evaluation of pathology. Provides computed tomography service coverage after normal business hours and on weekends and holidays. Performs computed tomography procedures on a variety of patients including scheduled exams, inpatients, outpatients, and emergency department patients.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES - Produces high quality radiographic images through appropriate positioning and technical factors. Operates CT scanner, power injector and post processing equipment. Adjusts protocols to meet patient needs when necessary. Critiques completed procedures for high diagnostic quality.
- Performs general radiography exams as needed.
- Adjusts protocols to meet patient needs when necessary.
- Critiques completed procedures for high diagnostic quality.
- Maintains a repeat rate at or below the national standard.
- Familiarity with terminology and the procedures performed in all of Diagnostic Imaging. Demonstrates a working knowledge of all front desk and file room procedures.
- Communicates delays to patients. Explains procedures so that patients are comfortable. Obtains thorough and pertinent patient history and prepares patients for examination.
- Encourages and assist in research at the technologist level. Keeps abreast of new procedures and exams as it pertains to area of diagnostic imaging practice.
- Selects the appropriate equipment and is aware of the set up based on procedure protocol, specifications, and standards.
- Evaluates the technical quality of images and is able to record, archive, retrieve, compile, and calculate data.
- Independently capable of assisting the radiologist during invasive procedures such as biopsies and abscess drainages.
- Positions the patient based on anatomy in question and provides accurate measurements, educates and can clearly explain procedures before imaging, and follows age-specific guidelines.
- Practices positive patient identification.
- Acquires complete and appropriate patient history and conveys all pertinent information to radiologist. Confers with radiologist regarding patient care and protocol as necessary.
ORGANIZATIONAL AND DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES - Consistently treats patients and co-workers with dignity and respect. Observes patient and employee confidentiality as described by the privacy policies of Memorial Healthcare and complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
- Demonstrates knowledge of and supports hospital's mission, vision and value statements, standards, policies and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality statements, corporate compliance plan, customer service standards, imaging exam protocols, and the code of ethical behavior. Promotes a culture of safety, quality services, and customer satisfaction.
- Demonstrates safe and effective use as well as calibrates and performs preventive maintenance of all equipment associated with assigned duties.
- Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of patients served. Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs.
- Identifies problems or issues and brings them to the attention of the appropriate individual. Assumes responsibility and confirms that the problem has been resolved.
- Informs Diagnostic Imaging Management of unusual events or variations in normal business or clinical activities and shares ideas for improvement.
- Participates in educational and staff meetings. Attends all department meetings and/or reads minutes. Participates as assigned with student/new employee education.
- Performs and/or accepts all other duties as assigned.
- Performs routine cleaning of work area and associated equipment. Maintains a complete stock of necessary supplies
- Transports and transfers patients in a safe manner and adheres to patient transport policy. Utilizes proper restraints, side rails, and other associated measures when transporting patients.
- Participates in continuous quality improvement activities or committees.
- Adheres to dress code requirements and standards. Wears identification badge clearly visible at chest level while on duty.
JOB SPECIFICATIONS - Education
- Minimum
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) registered in Radiography.
- Document at least 20 hours of training and experience in operating CT equipment, radiation physics, and radiation protection in guidelines as described in the State of Michigan requirements for CT Operators.
- As of September 1st, 2011: American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) advanced registry in Computed Tomography (or CT registry eligible). CT Registry eligible candidates must attain CT Registered status with the ARRT within 9 months of accepting the position.
- Desired
- Two year allied health degree.
- Training and Experience
- Minimum
- Able to perform computed tomography imaging procedures independently and accurately.
- Able to establish and maintain sterile venous access via intravenous catheter.
- Desired
- Two years of experience as an ARRT registered radiologic technologist.
- Previous experience performing computed tomography procedures.
- Essential Technical and Motor Skills
- Ability to effectively operate a computer, associated peripherals, and Microsoft Windows operating system.
- Ability to utilize telephone, fax machine, and electronic messaging systems.
- Ability to read quickly and accurately to obtain clinical and pertinent information.
- Ability to operate/utilize imaging equipment in area of hire.
- Essential Physical Requirements
- Ability to work sitting, walking and/or standing for long periods of time.
- Ability to do forward reaching, bending, pulling, twisting lifting and turning associated with patient transport and equipment handling.
- Ability to push wheelchairs or stretchers throughout the hospital.
- Essential Mental Requirements
- Ability to understand complex written and verbal orders and able to manage several different tasks at once.
- Essential Sensory Requirements
- Ability to communicate receptively and expressively in English both written and spoken, with employees, volunteers, and patients.
- Ability to visually assess patient's condition.
- Ability to communicate with patient in order to assess patient's condition and evaluate effects of treatment.
- Ability to accurately hear communication by phone or in person.
- Interpersonal Skills
- Must have the ability to interact effectively with patients and their families, the public, physicians and other Memorial Healthcare staff and maintain a professional and courteous manner.
- Ability to deal with emotional or distraught patients.
- Ability to maintain self-control.