Mammography Technologist

Major Responsibilities: Performs screening and diagnostic mammograms on physician referred or self recommended patients according to established clinical protocols and MQSA Quality Guidelines.

1. Delivers patient care in accordance with department/hospital standards; changes to adapt to customer/department needs.
2. Ensures images are properly labeled.
3. Applies radiation protection to patient in accordance with accepted radiation protection standards for mammography.
4. Selects technical factors to ensure appropriate capture of digital images.

Prepares and processes patient clinical and demographic information, using Penrad and ensures the accuracy of historic and current information.

1. Secures or otherwise makes arrangements for mammography films performed elsewhere to be sent to the Advocate Center for Breast Care.
2. Documents patient and family history and other pertinent clinical information in PenRad computer database designed for this perpose.
3. Provides accurate notes detailing any comments, unique circumstances or observation in PenRad that will aid the radioloigst in dictating the mammographic report.
4. Documents the presence of a physical lump, moles or other skin lesions with BB Markers and draws or labels breast diagrams in Penrad, indicationg location of anatomical scars, pervious surgical sites or other abnormalities.
5. Documents procedure information in Penrad.
6. Verifies proper procedure charge has been entered in Radnet Computer System and corrects if necessary.
7. Able to perform patient query functions using Radnet and Penrad systems.
8. Reviews previous mammographic reports and digital images to establish insight into how the current study is to be performed.

Prepares mammographic images, scans documentation and determines when radiographic exam adheres to department standard for interpretation by the Radiologist.

1. Ensures historical images are available for review by the Radiologist.
2. Ensures the presence of any previous diagnostic or pathology reports.
3. Prepares current images for dictation by ensuring proper image identification and scanning orders into PACs.
4. Provides accurate notes detailing any comments, unique circumstances or observation in Penrad that will aid the Radiologist in dictating the mammographic report.

Provides pre-procedure, procedure and post-procedure education and instruction to the patient appropriate to the patient's needs and requirements.

1. Participates in advanced mammographic procedures such as wire localizations, galactograms, Stereotactic biopsy and specimen radiographs.
2. Demonstration of how the equipment operates, the use of compression and address any questions the patient may have on a procedural basis, the technologist must be able to identify the anxious and fearful patient.
3. On a post-procedure basis, the mammography technologist must be able to describe in sufficient detail the process by which the images will be processed and read by the Radiologists and how the diagnostic reports are communicated to the referring physician and how layman report is sent to patient's home, received via e-mail, or phone call.
4. Maintains patient modesty and confidentiality throughout the entire patient visit.
5. The technologist must be viewed as being helpful to the patient by facilitating or directing the patient to other resources in the patient's quest to seek additional information or address other issues outside the scope of the mammography service; the technologist must offer to assist this patient in this effort.
6. Properly labels and identifies specimens to go to lab. Accurately documents pathology form.
7. Call for specimen pick up when necessary.

Delivery of Patient Care and a "Service First" approach in accordance with departmental standards of continued quality improvement.

1. Demonstrates excellent communication skills by answering questions from all customers in an appropriate and respectful manner.
2. Takes an active role in making sure the general appearance of the department meets "service first" requirements.
3. Maintains positive customer relations following prescribed department policies.
4. Participates in team problem solving issues that would improve patient care, department operations, image quality, interdepartmental relationships and employee satisfaction.

Performs mammography equipment quality control and quality assurance tests established to meet MQSA Qualaity Control/Quality Assurance Standards and equipment manufacturer's recommendations.

1. Performs start-up and shut-down procedures according to established procedures.
2. Performs equipment warm-up and calibration tests according to manufacturer's recommended frequency.
3. Cleans illuminator panels and surfaces as needed to remove sources of dirt, contamination and artifacts.
4. Cleans and disinfects equipment surfaces that come into direct contact with the patient's skin after each use.

Ensure a secure and safe patient and work environment by maintaining continued awareness of safety hasards.

1. Adheres to safety practices and provides a safe work environment for self and others.
2. Must promote patient safey by reporting of issues through established channels and participate as requested in safety initiatives.
3. Follows Accrediting Organization requirements regarding safety and protection of patients and staff.

Education/Experience Required: -Graduate of an approved AMA Radiologic Technology Program -Completion of Training in Mammography speciality - Knowledge of breast anatomy - Need to recognize patients experiencing fear or anxiety - Needs to be able to recognize needs and behaviors of a variety of age groups of patients treated, i.e. understand the differences of female growth and development, and look for signs of normal aging; degree of under- standing and physical limitation related to age Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Good verbal and written communication skills - Ability to handle anxious and fearful patients - Demonstrated technical skills as a mammographer -Knowledge of mammography positioning.
• Registered in Mammography-ARRT (M) - IDNS License

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: - Position best performed by a female who enjoys working with women in health related issues - Must understand and take serious the social and psychological issues associated with mammography and breast cancer. - Must keep abreast of changes in regulatory requirements, including FDA, IEMA, ACR, and MQSA - Must engage in continuous learning and review of new and emerging technologies - Must be flexible and be able to adapt to a rapidly changing environment and growing patient volume - Must demonstrate confidence in one’s own ability and have a calming effect on patients and others If position has direct patient care or direct patient contact the following lifting requirement supersedes any previous lifting requirement effective 06/01/2015. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Addendum: NOTE: Comply with mandatory inservices for Fire Safety, Standards of Behavior and Universal Precautions; Maintain CPR Certification. Must maintain professional decorum, and adhere to dress code as required by department; no deviations allowed. This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.