Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI Technologist

Performs magnetic resonance imaging of the head and body including, but not limited to: brain, face, larynx, nasopharynx, neck, orbits, paranasal sinus, parotid glands, tongue and oropharynx, TMJ, chest, cardiac, cervical spine, thoracic spine, lumbo-sacral spine, brachial plexus, abdomen (adrenal, kidney, liver, pancreas, elastography, and POFF), pelvis (bladder, prostate, scrotum, rectum), shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand, hip, knee, and foot/ankle. Complex procedures including, but not limited to: MRA chest, abdomen, pelvis, aorta, carotid bifurcations, circle of willis, vertebral/basilar arteries, liver, renal, spinal canal, MRV superior sagittal sinus, MR iliac veins, MR spectroscopy, MRCP, runoffs, prostate, cardiac, breast, biopsies, defecography, and MRI research exams.

Allays patient anxiety by informing the patient about what the MRI examination entails and what the patient can expect. Constantly monitors all equipment brought into the MRI environment to ensure it is MRI safe or MRI conditional.

Instructs patients to remove all metal objects from pockets or body; watches, chains, earrings, belts, hearing aids, dentures, prosthetic devices, and wallets and place them in the provided locker.

Ensures patient then changes into a gown for their safety. Uses patient safety devices as necessary to ensure patient's safety during preparation and examination. Monitors special equipment such as pulse oximeter, ECG, infusion pumps, oxygen equipment, and respirators.

Properly labels, secures, prepares IV contrast as necessary and injects patients with contrast media under supervision of a Radiology physician to enhance tissue, lesions, etc. Also monitors patients during and after injection for any reaction and informs the Radiologist and/or Radiology nurse when a reaction occurs. Monitors patients that have been medicated for discomfort and provide early detection of potential complications. Assists the physician to treat and manage adverse contrast reactions. Assists the code team if necessary.

Maintains patient privacy and confidentiality. Modesty and comfort will be observed for each patient. When performing examinations, safety for the patient will always be observed. Maintains good patient care by checking IV's, catheter, monitors and oxygen set-up throughout the patient's stay in the department.

Always provides hearing protection to patient, and explanation of best use and insertion. Performs all assigned procedures in a timely and courteous manner.

Because of the high incident of claustrophobia, causing patient fear and incomplete examinations, the employee must be compassionate and understanding with patients having magnetic scans. The employee should spend time encouraging the patient to complete the examination or contact the patient's practitioner for assistance. At no time does the MRI technologist insist or force a patient to complete an exam. For uncontrollable patients, the employee must understand and utilize different ways to change the parameters to obtain an optimum image.

Coordinates with radiologists and physicists to determine the appropriate pulse sequences for each individualized patient examination. Follows established protocols and does not make permanent changes to established protocol unless directed by their Supervisor or a Radiologist. Any permanent change must be communicated to the MRI Supervisor and subsequently all MRI staff and Radiologists.

Performs clinical analysis of data recorded by the computer. Performs image capture, retrieval, and archiving functions. Records computer data on disc, if needed. Technician sends studies to a long-term storage by Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS). Verifies patient study is in PACS.

Prepares magnet for daily operation, brings system up, checks all self calibrating parameters. Cleans and prepares equipment surfaces in accordance with established infection control guidelines. Performs routine archiving status checks and deletes data according to established guidelines. Informs supervisor and Engineering (Bio-Medical Section) of problems with equipment. Assists manufacturer representative and biomedical engineers in the calibration and troubleshooting of malfunctions in all equipment associated with the MRI unit.

Registers patients and answers telephones. Performs reception duties by greeting patients, visitors, and employees in person and by telephone, and gathers and relays information. Enters the correct information to register patients upon arrival for all exams performed in Radiology Service. Determines the need of patients for escorts.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized

US Department of Veterans Affairs