Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)

Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional The incumbent serves as a Diagnostic Radiology Technologist for Imaging Service at the JJPVAMC. In this position the incumbent will perform routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures, and MRI exams used for medical diagnosis. General Description of Assigned Duties: Performs all routine and complex radiographic procedures. These exams are achieved using diagnostic digital X-Ray equipment such as: DR Radiographic, DR Fluoroscopic, and DR Chest Radiographic units. Operates equipment for the purpose of providing radiographic examinations for the diagnosis and treatment of patients. These examinations are performed with or without enteric contrast material. Coverage is provided 24 hours, 7 days a week. The incumbent is expected to provide various tour coverage including weekends and holidays. Receives and interprets request, or instructions for procedures. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams of the upper and lower GI tract. Identifies the patient and the image. Uses right and left markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity does not occur. The technician must be certain that the patient ID band and the request are identical. Obtains the confidence and cooperation of patients during procedures Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done. Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x- rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures upon request, operates the digital fluoro unit in the Operating Room. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. The technicians, to assure compliance with radiation regulations, wear film badges. The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Edits and when necessary registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HISRIS interface. Understands the principals of the use of CR and PACS. Uses these electronic methods to complete procedures, assign accurate patient information to studies then electronically send images for interpretation. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. Participates in continuing education processes in order to maintain competencies and keep abreast of technological advances. Incumbent must demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology as well as medical terminology in order to perform responsibilities, and demonstrate a high degree of accuracy in radiographic positioning and exposure techniques. Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. Recognizes and reports malfunctioning equipment to his/her supervisor. Incumbent must attain and maintain BCLS (basic cardiac life support) certification from accredited society as per local policy. Incumbent must possess knowledge of sterile technique which includes medical asepsis and surgical asepsis. Incumbent must be able to perform a variety of routine and complex CT (Computerized Tomography) exams including routine, vascular (cardiac and noncardiac), musculoskeletal and neuroradiologic. Incumbent must be able to perform a variety of routine and complex MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) exams including routine, vascular (peripheral, neurovascular), neuro (brain/spine) and musculoskeletal. Incumbent must be familiar with the loading, programming and use of automated power injectors. Incumbent must be familiar with identifying and initiating treatment for extravasation of IV contrast. Incumbent must be familiar with the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction to intravenous iodinated contrast, as well as gadolinium based MR contrast agents, and immediately inform medical staff in the area including nurse and/or physician, and if necessary activate emergency code and initiate CPR. Incumbent must have competency to perform MR, CT and special/interventional procedures. Incumbent must be well versed in all issues related to patient safety and site safety as well as following all regulations in the MR environment, which is unique, as per local policy. Incumbent spends roughly 75% of time performing MR and 25% of time performing CT exams, general radiology and special/interventional procedures.