MRI Technologist - Per Diem

MRI Technologist

Under the direction of a radiologist, with minimum supervision, maintain the daily function of the MRI department.

Minimum of two years MRI scanning experience preferred.

High school with additional 2-year Radiology Technology Training from a JRCERT approved program. Additional training or experience in the field of MRI Technology. Certification Required: ARRT(R) or ARRT (MR). Certification preferred: ARRT(R)(MR)

Essential Functions

A. The MRI technologist must initiate the correct protocol for scanning the requested anatomy with minimal supervision.

1. Check MRI consult/prescription, provisional diagnosis for relevant patient history and information. Prepare the patient for the exam by explaining the exam and changing the patient into a hospital gown and/or pants.
2. Review patient screening form and investigate any contraindications to be sure patient is a candidate for MRI examination. This would include initiating the proper request forms for any x-rays to be taken for screening purposes for biomedical implants and metal foreign bodies.
3. Initiate any research of materials needed to confirm the MRI compatibility of any biomedical implant. This includes identifying the correct implant for the individual patient, the documentation of surgical records and/or biomedical implant card and the verification of this information from the manufacturer and their recommendations. This information should be added to the patient chart in Epic under the implant tab.
4. If there are any discrepancies between the ordered MRI examination and relevant histories, the technologist will bring to the MRI Radiologist's attention for further discussion with attending physician.
5. Prepare the room and scanner equipment according to the anatomical area to be scanned per request and protocol. This would include the correct coil selection, patient monitoring equipment, ancillary cardiac or pulse gating equipment, and automatic injector system.

B. Advise and explain to the patient, the MRI examination procedure.

1. This would include communication for any patient population including pediatric, geriatric, neurology, psychiatric or any patient who is compromised with any deficit for hearing or understanding.
2. Advise patient of means of communication available during the scan and alert them as to the means of communication if an emergency arises. i.e.: emergency "squeeze ball"
3. Advise the patient of the possibility and/or necessity of an intravenous contrast injection and the precautions or contraindications involved with such an injection.

C. Transfer of patient to the MRI scanner table and preparation for intravenous injection if needed.

1. Transfer the patient safely to the scanner table. This would include transfer into the scanner room by non-magnetic chair or stretcher.
2. Proper alignment of patient's anatomy to appropriate receiver coil.
3. Preparation of injection site. Selection and insertion of correct materials needed for the injection, including appropriate amount of contrast material and the proper setting of flow rates for injection and flushing for the Medrad automatic injector system.

D. Scanning

1. Initiate scanning protocols as suggested by the radiologist. Selection of correct parameter data for each individual patient. Proper use of Systems Imaging parameters, including, but not limited to Conventional Spin and Gradient Echo Techniques for all body imaging, Fast Spin Echo and EPI Gradient Techniques for both body and Neuro -Vascular imaging.
2. Display scans on the operator's viewing console for the radiologist, adjusting appropriate window and center widths and levels for permanently recording scans via laser camera onto x-ray film.
3. Alert radiologist of abnormalities present on images so that correct protocol is obtained.
4. Monitor the patient's condition during the scan and keep them informed as to what is happening.
5. Continually monitor scanner system for program errors. Make corrections and/or notify Siemens service personnel.
6. Transfer scans to PACs, film as necessary, and notify radiologist that series is ready for viewing.
7. Operate laser imager and select appropriate picture format. Prepare films and other materials to be sent to the referring physicians.

E. Maintain familiarity with life support equipment

1. Monitor patient's condition during and post injection and observe for reaction and/or distress signals associated with the injection of contrast materials.
2. Notify radiologist if reaction occurs and assist as needed during any emergency. Able to perform a stand-pivot transfer with a 105-pound patient.
3. Safely monitor sedated, pediatric, intensive care unit, and any other patient that may need special attention. This includes operation of the MRI compatible monitoring system, pulse oximetry blood pressure and EKG monitoring.
4. Must be able to react quickly to emergency situations such as patient fainting, patient being unsteady while getting onto scanning table, if unsafe situations occur (such as a fire), getting patient to safety and sounding alarms.
5. Must maintain CPR certification according to hospital policy.

Other Duties

1. Rotate call overnights Monday through Friday, 24 hours Saturday and Sunday, and rotating holidays.
2. Ability to work alone (on call) and get job done in an efficient manner.
3. Able to be in the department within 30 minutes after the MRI screening form has been cleared.
4. Must be able to work a variety of shifts on a scheduled basis.
5. Must be able to lift, push, reach, bend, stoop, and walk to care for patients.
6. Maintains orderliness and cleanliness of the scanner department.
7. Cooperates with all personnel in proper conduct of the department.
8. Demonstrates willingness to accept non-routine work assignment, as appropriate.

Salary Min$35.85 Max $56.79 Flat per diem rate $57.63