Lead Nuclear Medicine Technologist -Ft 36 Hours

Carries out a wide variety of complex diagnostic radioactive isotope examinations and designated therapeutic procedures.  Performs daily and weekly equipment calibration and documents results.  Maintains log of incoming isotopes and waste disposal.  Prepares patients utilizing variable controls on complex equipment/instruments and provides reassurance to patients.  Assists with orientation and training of new staff.  Complies with radiation safety and related rules and regulations using knowledge of NRC standards.  Maintains records of all procedures and processes required.  Assists with the evaluation of new equipment and procedures.  Carries out emergency procedures within authorized limitations.  Performs routine maintenance on equipment.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:

Performs radioactive isotope and therapeutic procedures.

• Receives orders for designated examinations, verifies orders in patient's chart and checks for previous exams.  As required, transports patients on stretchers or wheelchair to and from examining and other areas.
• Reviews clinical information to determine type and quantity of isotope and route of administration.
• Administers isotope and other prescribed medication to patient's orally or by injection.  Follows standards for injection.
• Independently performs standard and special procedures utilizing in depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology.  Exercises judgment to determine diagnostic quality and patient's tolerance to procedure, discontinuing exams if patient's condition warrants.
• Sets up complex electronic and computerized instruments to perform exams. Carries out test of various body fluids by collecting, processing and analyzing specimens. Calculates results and documents to appropriate forms for radiologist interpretation.
• Processes films using automated equipment.

Provides communication.

• Explains procedures to be performed to each patient.  Gives preparatory instructions. Provides reassurance to anxious patients.
• Schedules both in and out patients procedure. Coordinates timing of exams to minimize delays.
• Provides direction and assistance to support staff.
• Communicates defective or inoperable instruments/equipment to supervisor for repairs.
• Reads reports to authorized staff or physicians over phones.  (+) Answers inquiries and  provides requested assistance on manners dealing with Radiology, Ultrasound, CT Scan and MRI services.

Maintains radiation safety.

• Updates various departmental records relating to patients, equipment and isotopes; including type, dosage, made of administration and quality assurance.
• Keeps accurate records of usage, storage and disposal of all radioactive materials.
• Carries out daily radiation level surveys and records results.
• Performs wipe test and other monitoring procedures on instruments, equipment and  work area.
• Maintains files of all films, records and reports of isotope patient by history number.
• Cleans glassware and other exposed materials with proper cleaning materials.  Coordinates the disposal of waste GSA and General Service staff.

Insures high level of quality control.

• Performs quality assurance procedures and maintains records for same.
• Assists in preparation of reports required by the Radiation Safety Committee and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
• Works with consultant physicist on the safety program, calibration and handling of radioactive materials.
• Periodically checks and tests instruments/equipment to assure proper working order. Performs or assists in daily quality assurance test and floods cameras.
• Maintains supplies at prescribed levels.
• Carries out prescribed maintenance and occasionally makes minor repairs to equipment, as qualified.
• Maintains equipment and work areas in clean and orderly condition.  Maintains sterile technique when administering radioactive materials.
• Reviews films for quality and readability and takes steps required to assure that quality control standards are met.
• Completes STAT reports, and delivers to proper personnel.

Performs related duties.

• Gathers statistical information, as required.
• Assists with training and orientation of new staff.
• Assists in evaluation and recommendation of new equipment.
• In absence of clerical staff performs a variety of department clerical tasks.
• Participates in the scheduling of test scanning, gathering of technical information, interviewing of sales people, etc.
• In the absence of Chief Nuclear Medicine Technologist, assumes designated responsibilities of that position. Distributes work assignments.
• Participates in the on-call rotation.
• Attends 66% of staff meetings.
• Attends monthly in-services.
• Acknowledges all tests to generate patient charges on a daily basis.

LEAD TECH ROLE EXPECTATIONS #1:

• Reports to and maintains effective working relationships with the department manager.
• Analyze the work to be done and plan for effective utilization of available resources.
• Plans assignments so that appropriate coverage is provided for all patients and continuity of care is maintained.
• Supports staff in prioritization of work to be done.
• Acts as a role model in organizing tasks and personnel into an effective work plan.
• Anticipates potential problems and assists in problem solving as needed.
• Delegates duties to appropriate unit personnel as necessary.
• Schedules staff to minimize use of overtime and ensures efficient use of resources.
• Reviews revenue and expenses on a monthly basis (budget compared to actual) and recommends areas of growth and areas to reduce expenses if needed.
• Recommends equipment to improve quality of services and participates in the selection and installation of equipment as needed.

LEAD TECH ROLE EXPECTATIONS #2:

• Promotes a collaborative relationship with all members of the multidisciplinary team.
• Communicates with clarity and composure.
• Collaborates effectively with physicians, supervisors, multidisciplinary staff, and other departments.
• Provides effective collaboration as required in order to ensure approximate and timely services.
• Completes appropriate performance appraisals on time.
• As required by JCAHO, completes competency checklist on each employee during annual evaluation process.
• Increase the focus of support staff towards customer service.
• Facilitates smooth transition regarding coverage issues.
• Assess the distribution of tasks and responsibilities as currently assigned.
• Ensures the services are in compliance with all regulatory standards, including but not limited to JCAHO, CMS and DEP.
• Reviews feedback from patients and makes necessary adjustments to improve patient satisfaction.
• Communicates effectively and acts as an information resource regarding modality specific policies and procedures.
• Initiates disciplinary action by conferring with department manager before any action is taken.

Educational / Minimum Requirements:     

High school graduate. Graduation from a two year accredited program in radiologic technology and two year accredited program in Nuclear Medicine. One to two years’ experience (preferred) in a Nuclear Medical Radiology department.

State/Federal Mandated Licensure or Certification Requirements: 

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Registration from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) OR from the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board, (CNMT)  State License is not required in Connecticut.

Bristol Hospital Mandated Educational Requirements: 

General orientation at time of hire. Fire/Safety/Infection Control annually. Other programs as mandated by Hospital.

Special Requirements:

Basic knowledge of radiology and Nuclear Medicine equipment.

Physical Requirements:      

Extended standing and walking together with occasional bending, reaching and stooping.  Some heavy lifting.

Work Environment: 

Exposure to patient elements and radioactive materials.  May include customer contact and telephone use.

Cognitive Requirements:    

Excellent communication skills.  Exceptional organizational and planning ability.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.