Mammographer

Purpose of Position
Perform mammographic exams and procedures as requested by physicians to detect any breast abnormalities or breast cancer by applying radiation to patients, taking digital images in a manner consistent with prescribed radiation protection safety standards. Conducts bone density examinations.

Description
1. Assures that diagnostic mammographic and stereotactic equipment/devices are operable, ensuring M QS A compliance by completing all necessary quality assurance checks, and maintaining accurate documentation.
2. Prepares exam rooms with necessary mammographic and stereotactic equipment/devices and appropriate patient supplies.
3. Thoroughly reviews requisitions, and radiologists last dictated report /images , determining the ordered radiological exams . Make any necessary order changes for accurate billing and inform medical records if previous images need to be requested.
4. Consult with r adiologist, as needed , for any clarification of ordered mammography exams based upon last dictated report or current history.
5. Provides patient with explanation of the mammographic exam to be performed and assure s patient is aware of result process . P rovide patient education on process for screening mammograms results versus diagnostic mammogram process and results.
6. Assure that required patient history form is completed. Clarify any patient history to assure accuracy .
7. Refer patient to nurse practitioner if patient history identifies any new breast symptom, if diagnostic exam . Breast exam will be performed by provider with instructions of imaging exams necessary for complete work-up.
8. Assumes care for physical and psychological needs of patients during examinations and procedures to ensure safety and comfort while preparing for and while undergoing mammographic procedures.
9. Performs diagnostic mammographic/stereotactic procedures, safely operating equipment/devices specializing in the screening and diagnosing of breast abnormalities and breast cancer.
• Use mammographic equipment and adjust controls to set exposure factors and process images using appropriate safety precautions necessary to produce quality mammograms.
• Assure proper identification by using two patient identifiers.
• Follow established policies/procedures set by the American College of Radiology and M QS A for breast imaging and procedures.
10. Coordinate work to achieve maximum productivity and efficiency using and / or modifying established procedures, to ensure timely completion of work in conformance with department policies and procedures.
• Evaluate mammogram images for technical quality to include region of interest when necessary .
• Maintain adequate radiology records and label all mammogram films to assure proper identification.
11. Performs DEXA (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) including spine, hip, and forearm if needed according to clinical history.
12. Performs and maintains the Quality Control documentation as required by regulatory agencies.
13. Perform the assigned QC tests in a timely and accurate manner.
14. Maintains adequate inventory and supplies needed for bone density operation.
15. Must ensure the equipment is handled, properly maintained, and reports all malfunctions to the contracted service and ensures timely completion of any service repair.
16. Responsible for maintaining knowledge and training in:
• Daily quality control
• Patient positioning
• Scan protocols
• Data management
• Radiation protection
17. Quality Control procedures include but are not limited to:
• Anthropomorphic spine phantom daily scans
• Maintain records of QC date
• Diagnose/resolve potential problems
• Weekly archive of data base
18. Data management to maintain permanent patient records with correct entry of patient information. Proper retrieval and update of patient information prior to scanning.
19. Must complete the requisite course of instruction for operator certification including software and hardware operation, quality control, patient positioning, and radiation protection.
20. Completes all PACS and processing to ensure appropriate transfer of data.
• Ability to access patient directory, history timeline, images and user manual
• Ability to burn CDs
• Appropriate use of technologist work list, linking exams and exception resolution.
21. Maintain a thorough knowledge of Center policies and procedures as they pertain to the job, including the fire plan. Comply with Infection Control policies and procedures.
22. Participates in activities which promote professional self-growth and development; meeting minimum requirements for continuing education as directed by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and Massachusetts State Licensing for Mammography.
23. Maintain an ethical relationship with patients, physicians, personnel and guests and ensure patient confidentiality at all times.
24. Consistently provides service excellence to all patients, family members, visitors, volunteers and co-workers.
25. Perform other work related duties as assigned or requested.

Qualifications

• • Ability to read, write and communicate in English
  • High school graduate or GED
  • Graduate of a JCERT Accredited Radiography Program
  • Certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
  • Advance level ARRT Bone Density Operator certification preferred
  • Current BLS
  • Currently performing 3D mammography
  • Must currently have and maintain active Massachusetts State license for Radiology and Mammography according to Federal and State agencies, and as defined by ACR's continuing experience and education standards for Mammography
  • Must become proficient in bone density exams within 6 months of entering position