Radiology Technologist

Job Description
PRN XRAY
Job Summary
The Radiologic Technologist is responsible for providing courteous and professional delivery of radiographic technical procedures to all incoming patients. This position applies principles of radiation protection and evaluates radiographs for technical quality. The person in this position exercises professional judgment in the performance of procedures and provides patient care essential to radiology procedures. The Radiologic Technologist responds to patient questions and concerns regarding the exam process and procedures. He/she maintains appropriate confidentiality regarding personal health information, including but not limited to demographics, diagnosis, health history, and physician referral information. This person is responsible for all paperwork associated with technical procedures and responds to physician questions and needs regarding patient procedures. Some technologists may work under the direct medical supervision of a physician during certain procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepares patients for radiological procedures and performs radiologic exams following established procedures for patient care and safety.
• Performs high quality radiologic exams on incoming patients in a timely manner while providing excellent patient care; may also be required to perform fluoroscopy and/or DEXA exams on incoming patients.
• Protects patients, self and staff from radiation exposure by practicing sound procedures which meet or exceed recommended industry standards.
• Performs all radiologic procedures in strict accordance with currently approved practices, as outlined in department policy and procedure manuals, and complies with all applicable federal, state, local, and other regulatory requirements.
• Develops radiological film and processes CR and DR imaging.
• Ensures that all equipment is in good working condition and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Immediately reports any equipment malfunctions to the Supervisor/Manager.
• Logs radiological procedures and completes paperwork accurately and on time.
• Keeps x-ray and DEXA rooms and dressing booths clean and properly stocked with supplies.
• Requests, retrieves, and tracks files to and from other departments or centers, if applicable.
• Works closely with radiologists, physicians, PA's, or NP's to receive guidance and instruction for treating patients.
• Makes suggestions to improve work methods.
• Trains new employees and/or externs if needed.
• Treats all patients, customers, family members, and care providers with courtesy, professionalism and respect.
• Administers oral, rectal, and IV contrast as needed, in a safe and effective manner.
• Monitors patient's well-being during exams; recognizes patient discomfort or medical problems and takes appropriate action.
• Understands and uses appropriate field of view, voltage, amps and other adjustment factors on equipment in order to produce high quality images.
• Uses ALARA concept to minimize patient radiation doses. Documents and reports any over-exposure and advises management immediately.
• Checks patient history and obtains signed waivers, if necessary.
• Screens patients for contraindications to iodinated contrast injections, including ingestion of this material and barium sulfate.
• Consults with radiologist when necessary to determine appropriate scanning or exam procedures.
• Completes all paperwork and exam reports associated with technical procedures.
• Responds to physician questions and needs regarding patient procedures.
• Checks referral for appropriate study based on patient history.
• Assures room is ready prior to the patient entering the room (i.e. equipment is operable, all supplies are readily available, and has been appropriately cleaned and prepped).
• Handles delicate situations (fractures, cancerous pathology, etc.) in a supportive and empathetic manner ("good bedside manners") while maintaining appropriate confidentiality regarding exam outcomes or potential issues.
• Keeps patient schedule and accommodates add-on patients when requested.
• Communicates delays or changes in the schedule to the appropriate person(s).
• Exercises sound judgment regarding image quality; seeks guidance from radiologist if concerned about what the scan reveals and obtains prior approval before doing additional scans/views to better diagnose the patient's pathology.
• Releases patient with proper follow-up information, including forms, when applicable.
• Prepares imaging (films or CD) if requested by the physician or patient.
• Conducts daily, weekly and monthly QC testing.
• Guides patients through difficult procedures by kindly talking them through the steps and answering their questions and concerns regarding their exams.
• Participates in projects and completes other tasks as assigned by management.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications, Education, and Experience

• Must have a current ARRT(R) certification and state license in Diagnostic Radiologic Technology (CRT).
• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• A CPR certification is required.
• Maintains license and continuing education in accordance with state, federal, and regulatory agencies' rules and regulations.
• Ability to relate to the public in a professional and courteous manner, understanding the objectives of the organization, regardless of racial, ethnic, religion, sexual orientation, gender, mental/physical health, age, economic status, etc.
• Familiarity with and ability to use specialized equipment.
• Responds to emergency situations in a calm and appropriate fashion.
• The above knowledge, skills, and abilities may be demonstrated by successful completion of an accredited program, state and federal licenses (as applicable), and appropriate registrations and/or certifications.
• Possesses excellent customer service skills, strong written and verbal communications skills, and additional medical related knowledge preferred.
• Must be detail-oriented and organized, and have the ability to interact effectively with doctors, staff, patients, vendors, peers, and management.
• If performing fluoroscopy, must have appropriate fluoroscopy permit/certification.
• If performing DEXA exams, must complete DEXA Training according to regional practice protocols.

Quality Standards

• Communicates, cooperates, and consistently functions professionally and harmoniously with all levels of supervision, co-workers, patients, visitors, and vendors.
• Maintains CEUs and licensing as needed in order to maintain a high level of skill in technical capabilities.
• Follows OSHA regulations, RadNet and site protocols, policies and procedures.
• Follows HIPAA, compliance, privacy, safety and confidentiality standards at all times.
• Practices universal safety precautions.
• Promotes good public relations on the phone and in person.
• Adapts and is willing to learn new tasks, methods and systems.

Physical Demands
This position often requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, twisting, reaching with hands and arms, using hands and fingers, handling or palpating, speaking, listening, and high-level cognition. Also, must be able to lift over 50 pounds, occasionally. All employees are to assist and participate as members of a lift assistance team (for special accommodation patients or any patient requiring assistance onto a table or equipment placement) to initiate or complete an exam or procedure.
Working Environment
Technologists work in an outpatient medical office setting with low to moderate noise level.
Pay Rate:
$30 - $34 / hour