CT Technologist

Computed Tomography (CT) TechnologistUnder the direction of the area supervisor, performs patient care and technical functions to insure proper radiologic diagnosis of patients.Responsibilities:Performs Computed Tomography exams under the order of a licensed medical practitionerFollows ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle; modifies radiation dose for individual patient's exams in accordance with established age/weight specific protocols (including pediatric techniques and dosing), utilizing dose reduction softwareReviews and verifies CT exam orders, radiologist's protocol instructions, and patient identification in accordance with hospital policy to ensure correct exam is performed on the correct patientAssesses patient risk via patient interviews and chart review; alerts nurses and/or physicians to possible contraindications for procedure (labs, allergies, etc.)Ensures patient is prepared and radiologist-ordered protocols for pre-medications have been completed (e.g. contrast allergy pre-medication)Assesses patient's need for care following contrast administration; arranges renal function tests and follow up according to radiologist protocol; instructs patients to withhold medication (e.g. metformin) per radiologist protocolProvides education to patient and family members and assesses understandingProvides for the physical and psychological needs of patients during CT exams, including monitoring of patient's oxygen saturation levels when caring for patients with orders for "continuous" O2 sat monitoring; addresses issues according to hospital protocol; assesses patient's level of pain and notifies nurse / provider as neededPerforms venipuncture for contrast administration, evaluates patency of IV access; administers saline flush per protocol pre/post IV contrast administrationPerforms Point-of-Care lab tests for evaluating renal function prior to contrast administrationPrepares and administers oral and/or IV contrast per department protocols as prescribed by a licensed practitionerEnsures personnel caring for patient follow safety procedures (e.g. infection prevention)Documents clinical and required regulatory information in patient's electronic chart (e.g. IV documentation, signs / symptoms relevant to exam, contrast administration in MAR); performs order entry / modification / cancelation in accordance with hospital policiesInitiates response to complications and emergencies arising during exams; requests assistance from nurses, providers, and other personnel as neededDemonstrates extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology and effects of disease processes; evaluates images, recognizes normal vs. abnormal anatomy and notifies the appropriate Radiologist as neededHandles and secures medications and equipment in accordance with hospital policiesUtilizes the image management system; acquire, format, manipulate, archives images to the PACS systemAssists physicians and residents as required with CT-Guided exams/procedures using aseptic technique as neededAssists patient with completing informed consent form, after provider has completed informed consent discussion with the patientImplements downtime procedures (manual operations) when computer systems or equipment failsInstructs new staff and students in CT procedures and techniquesPerforms competency evaluations for new CT personnelAssists with education and training of medical staff (Radiology Residents, Fellows, RPA's etc.)Maintains equipment and room in proper working condition and trouble-shoots malfunctioning equipment; takes appropriate action to address image quality issues. Performs quality control proceduresDemonstrates and promotes a healthy work environment and good teamwork; makes suggestions for improvements; demonstrates and promotes patient and family-centered care behaviorsAssists in organizing work flow utilizing available staff and roomsAssists performing exams identified for approved IRB researchAssists in coordinating and participates in departmental continuing education in-servicesProvides peer feedback for staff performance evaluationsPerforms various clerical duties and completes additional duties/projects as assigned