MRI TECH PT .2

MRI Technologist

An MRI Technologist operates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images of patients' internal organs and tissues. They ensure the proper functioning of equipment, position patients correctly for imaging, and collaborate with radiologists to interpret images and provide accurate diagnoses. Additionally, they must adhere to safety protocols to protect patients and themselves from potential hazards associated with MRI technology.

Essential Job Functions

• Operate MRI equipment
• Operate MRI scanners to create diagnostic images of internal body structures.
• Select appropriate imaging techniques and adjust machine settings based on patient conditions.
• Ensure proper positioning of patients for accurate imaging.
• Patient interaction and care
• Explain procedures to patients and answer any questions to reduce anxiety.
• Screen patients for safety.
• Ensure patient comfort during scans.
• Monitor patients during imaging for signs of distress or discomfort.
• Safety and compliance
• Follow all MRI safety protocols to protect patients, self, and coworkers from potential hazards related to strong magnetic fields.
• Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked work areas and imaging rooms.
• Participate in quality control.
• Collaboration and communication
• Communicate effectively with radiologists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare team members.
• Report any equipment malfunctions or safety concerns promptly to supervisors.

Responsibilities and Duties

1. Imaging procedures
2. Perform MRI scans according to orders and standard imaging protocols.
3. Position patients accurately to ensure optimal imaging results.
4. Patient care
5. Prepare and educate patients about MRI procedures to reduce anxiety.
6. Monitor patients during procedures and provide assistance as needed.
7. Safety and compliance
8. Adhere to all MRI safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.
9. Follow HIPAA and facility policies regarding patient privacy and data security.
10. Communication and teamwork
11. Collaborate with radiologists, nurses and referring physicians to ensure proper patient care.
12. Communicate effectively with patients and staff.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities - Competencies

• MRI Technologists need a variety of technical and soft skills to operate MRI machines, create high-quality images, and communicate with patients and other medical professionals.
• MRI Techs need to be proficient in operating and troubleshooting MRI machines.
• Attention to detail
• Communication skills
• Need to be empathetic and patient, as some patients may feel anxious or uncomfortable during the scan.
• Need to be able to interact effectively with patients from a variety of backgrounds.

Supervisory Responsibility

An MRI technologist working with their manager would primarily collaborate on if there were any problems with the equipment or related issues of quality patient care. MRI techs would primarily work with the lead tech which would give input on workflow and overall staff performance.

Materials Responsibility

Limited: Work requires limited responsibility for material resources. Examples of resources could include supplies, equipment, inventories, small budgets and other similar material assets. The employee has a limited control over these resources. The cost of errors is also limited in terms of damage, waste or financial loss. Problems associated with material resources are not complex. The volume of resources may vary, but the difficulty in dealing with these resources is uncomplicated.

Key Relationships

Co-workers/JCRHC employees, physicians/medical office staff, students/interns/residents/outside instructors, patients, families, and significant others.

Requirements

Education: 2 year college program or equivalent experience

Field of Study: Radiological technology, Magnetic resonance imagine credentialing

Special Training: Radiologic technologist, registered; basic life support; dependent adult/child abuse mandatory reporter training within timelines established in the licensure, registration, certification, and life saving training policy.

Training Preferred: Bachelor's degree preferred but not required.

Licensure / Registration: Iowa permit to practice, ARRT; Magnetic resonance imaging credentials

Experience: Minimum of 2 years' experience in radiology with MRI imagine required.

Interpersonal Skills: Interaction is with a variety of people. These may be fellow employees, customers, the public or others outside the organization. Communications are of limited difficulty. Interactions usually involve short, straightforward exchanges of information. The job requires a limited amount of interpersonal skills. Interactions are non-stressful encounters and dealing with uncomplicated problem situations.

Working Conditions:

There is exposure to moderately adverse and undesirable environmental conditions. There are some health and safety risks. Position may require safety equipment and precautions. The amount of time the employee may experience these moderate conditions exceeds 70% of their workday.

Possible Exposure to Blood Borne Pathogens:

Yes

Service Excellence Expectations:

• Adheres to the "Values and Behavior Statement" of Jackson County Regional Health Center.
• Adheres to HIPAA and maintains confidentiality as relates to all patient and medical information.
• Works in a safe manner at all times and adheres to our safety programs and service expectations.