Primary Function

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist specializes in using medical imaging equipment to independently produce diagnostic images of patients of all ages within the framework of established policy within the Imaging Department at Cherokee Indian Hospital.  The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist is a licensed professional technologist responsible for assessing the patient appropriately before exam and producing diagnostic images of tissues, organs, bones, and vessels; including head, spine, trunk and extremities in both X-Ray and CT.

The technologist in this position will perform exams in Radiology and apply advanced skills appropriate for the position within assigned functional area to meet the more complex requirements of the position. Duties and tasks are varied and may be somewhat complex. Resolves most questions and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher level. Works under minimal supervision. May assist in training, assigning and checking the work of lower level employees as well as working with students. Level II Technologist must be registered in Diagnostic Radiology and at least one additional modality (CT, U/S, MRI, Dexa or Mammography)

The purpose of this position is to perform Radiology, CT, and the additional modality examinations and apply skills appropriate for the position within assigned functional area to meet the more complex requirements of the position.   Production of high quality images for interpretation by Radiologists that meet the standards established by the CIHA Radiology Department.  This requires competence, as determined by competency assessments, in a variety of imaging equipment and technology.  Performance of other functional duties and tasks as assigned will vary and be somewhat complex to assure efficient and optimal patient care.  Incumbent will practice proper safety guidelines for themselves, support personnel, and patients. The promotion of teamwork will be implemented through effective communication. This will ensure high levels of service and quality care are given for a positive experience for every patient. Technologist will resolve most questions and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher level. The technologist will work under minimal supervision. They will assist in the training and checking the work of lower level employees and students.  The technologist must maintain flexibility and be open to work over and be on call when necessary, work holidays, and weekends as scheduled.

CT

This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human

Anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including angiograms (CTA). The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor body systems susceptible to radiological illumination.  The technologist will require knowledge to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician. The Technologists assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification in Computed Tomography (CT).

MRI

This specialty modality requires operation of a strong magnetic scanner to obtain images used in the diagnosis and treatment of patient pathologies.  This specialty uses knowledge of imaging techniques and cross-sectional anatomy to create high quality images for interpretation of the radiologist and other medical providers.  The technologist has the ability to modify technical settings and adjusts scanning parameters to enhance images and minimize artifacts caused by involuntary motion. Technologist must specific knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy, 3-D anatomy and the different imaging planes to obtain any specified requests from radiologist. The technologist must have advanced awareness of safety factors governing a magnetic environment to ensure that patients, visitors, and equipment are completely safe upon entrance of the MR suite.  Technologist must performs proper screening documentation of all patients, staff, etc. that enters suite.  This screening includes but not limited to ferrous objects and cardiac pacemakers prior to those persons entering environment of the 1.0, 1.5, and 3.0 Tesla magnetic field.  The technologist must be able to work independently and accurately optimize MR imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality utilizing the standardized amount of Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) and has the ability to operate all ancillary equipment necessary to complete the MRI study.  The technologist will require knowledge to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician. The Technologists assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification in Magnetic Resonance (MR).

Mammography

Performs specialized examinations of the breast to help in the diagnosis and treatment of breast disease in Mammography.  Mammography Technologist operates specialized X-ray equipment and performs various mammography related procedures including screenings and diagnostic studies.  Evaluate the image for technical quality such as density contrast, definition, and distortion.  Mammographers must have great patient care and communications skills.  Must be able to demonstrate empathy and compassion daily.  The Technologists assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification in Mammography (M).

Bone Densitometry

Bone densitometry technologists are radiology professionals who are responsible for measuring patients' bone mass to determine bone health, especially for the purpose of diagnosing osteoporosis and other bone diseases. They make sure the equipment is operating properly, utilize appropriate safety procedures, position patients, follow physicians' orders to complete scans, and record and report results. Bone Densitometry technologist create images using specialized X-ray equipment to help doctors discover issues with patients’ bone health. The Technologist assignments include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification in Bone Densitometry (DXA).

Ultrasound

The Ultrasound Technologist performs a wide variety of routine and complex ultrasound procedures.  The Ultrasound Technologist is expected to perform Ultrasound imaging such as cardiac, abdominal, small parts and routine vascular examinations and may perform more complex imaging such as Doppler and guided interventional procedures such as paracentesis and thoracentesis.  The Radiologist reads the ultrasound images and the results of these examinations are used to direct the course of patient care for providers. The Ultrasonographer has knowledge of the heart, abdominal, small parts, abdominal and peripheral vascular physiology, and disease. With guidance from management and team leads, the incumbent performs clinical examinations on adults, geriatric patients, adolescents, and pediatric age groups.  The technologist assignments include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARDMS or ARRT certification in Ultrasonography.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Consistently provides quality patient care in a professional atmosphere while performing radiographic, CT procedures with accuracy and professionalism as prescribed by a physician, acknowledging the special needs of patients, i.e. pregnancy, trauma, sick and/or elderly patients.
• Consistently performs quality radiographic exams by:
  • Determines proper technique through the selection of voltage, current and exposure time to minimize patient and staff exposure and to effect quality diagnostic images;
  • Properly positions patients to obtain optimum views of specified area of body as requested by physician;
  • Properly shields to minimize radiation to patient and staff and to ensure a safe environment.

• Consistently performs quality CT exams by:
  • Determines proper protocol according to the ordering physician and the radiologist.
  • Properly maintains proper technique according to ALARA for both adult and pediatric patients.
• Transports patients to and from department and assists patient from bed or gurney to exam table.
• Assures that any required consent forms are signed prior to examination, and obtains pertinent and adequate history on all patient exams.
• Obtains and fills out proper reaction sheets and histories as necessary for all patients; and advises physician of allergies as warranted.
• Practices sterile techniques and cleanliness at all times to prevent cross-contamination.
• Performs radiographic procedures in the operating rooms, emergency rooms, recovery room and patient rooms, using portable equipment in a safe, efficient atmosphere.
• Wears film badge at all times while performing any ionizing radiation exams.

• Performs a variety of imaging procedures in Radiology and CT, along with the additional modality technologist is registered, if not CT.Technologist operates all equipment safely and properly including scanners, injectors and monitors, following the manufactures instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; evaluating new equipment and techniques.
• Performs procedures as a team member, with the Radiologist and independently such as angiograms, IVP’s, Upper GI Series, Barium Swallow, Small Bowel Follow Through exams, and air contrasted Barium Enemas.Sets up the assigned room for appropriate procedure. Assures the sterile supplies, local anesthetics, contrast materials, catheters and other required equipment are present and laid out according to protocol.Prepares contrast material for all exams.
• Assists in ACR adherence by performing any QA as required in Radiology and CT.
• Completes all exams in a timely manner, keeps work flow moving, prioritizes patients accordingly and minimizes empty table time. 
• Maintains knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic technique, intravenous skills and universal precautions.Assures the sterile supplies, contrast materials, catheters and other required equipment are present.Prepares power injector, choose protocol and specific factors needed for that exam and contrast material used for injection.
• Specific knowledge of cross sectional anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology (contrast media used in CT and its effects and reactions), medical terminology and its application in spiral, and/or multi slice computer tomography.
• Differentiates artifacts from normal or pathological processes and recognized equipment limitations.
• Technologist will act as a resource for students and newly hired techs.
• Makes recommendations to department managers for implementation of such technology and policies, which would improve the operation the radiology department

Education/Experience

• Must be a graduate of an accredited program with a Bachelor of Science in Radiological Technology (B.S.R.T) or Radiological Sciences (B.S.R.S); or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S) in Radiography.
• Applicant must have an unrestricted and valid Registered Radiologic Technologist license with the state of NC or a state that is accepted as reciprocity.
• Must be registered with the ARRT in Radiography (R).
• Must be registered with the ARRT in one additional modality (Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance (MR), Mammography (M), Bone Densitometry (BD), or ARDMS or ARRT in Ultrasonography (US).
• Must have 2 or more years of experience in the additional modality.
• Must have 2 or more years of experience in CT.
• Must become registered by ARRT in Computed Tomography (CT) within 18 months of hire date.
• Proficiency rated at 1 year to become competent at job duties and responsibilities.
• Must maintain continuing education credits sufficient to maintain registry (24 CE’s/2 years).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) is required
• Applicant must have a valid Driver’s License