Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT)

Diagnostic Radiology Technologist

The incumbent serves as a Diagnostic Radiology Technologist for Imaging Service at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center. In this position the incumbent will perform routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures used for medical diagnosis. Major duties include but are not limited to:

• Performs all routine and complex radiographic procedures using diagnostic digital X-Ray equipment such as: DR Radiographic, DR Fluoroscopic, and DR Chest Radiographic units.
• 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.
• Performs a variety of routine and complex CT (Computerized Tomography) exams including routine, vascular (cardiac and noncardiac), musculoskeletal and neuroradiologic.
• Familiar with the loading, programming and use of automated power injectors.
• Familiar with identifying and initiating treatment for extravasation of IV contrast.
• Familiar with the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction to intravenous iodinated contrast and immediately inform medical staff in the area including nurse and/or physician, and if necessary, activate emergency code and initiate CPR.
• Perform two additional special procedures other than CT (special/interventional procedures, bone densitometry).
• Spends roughly 50% of time performing general radiology, 25% of time performing CT exams, and 25% of time in other (bone densitometry, special/interventional procedures).
• 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 requests, 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 for providing explanations of exams to patients so they clearly understand what is to be done.
• Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. The technicians, to assure compliance with radiation regulations, wear film badges. Must 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 principles of the use of CR and PACS. Uses these electronic methods to complete procedures, assign accurate patient information to studies then electronically sends images for interpretation.
• Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunctions in a timely manner to the supervisor.
• Participates in continuing education processes in order to maintain competencies and keep abreast of technological advances.
• 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 supervisors 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.
• Attain and maintain BCLS (basic cardiac life support) certification from accredited society as per local policy.
• Possess knowledge of sterile techniques which includes medical asepsis and surgical asepsis.

Work Schedule: Tuesday to Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm & Saturday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Functional Statement #: 21V19A

US Department of Veterans Affairs