Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)

Job Title

MRI Technologist

Job Description

Major Duties but not limited to: Participates in scheduling of exams in a manner so as to optimize all of the MRI scanner times while maintaining flexibility to allow for emergency cases. This requires the prioritization of scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the extreme emergency patient who may need immediate emergency surgery, etc. Confers with radiologists to determine requirements of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of MRI scanning. Provides additional sequences when deemed necessary to ensure adequate coverage of unexpected findings. Notifies a radiologist or referring physicians of scans requiring their immediate attention. Works with the radiologist as a member of the radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition (the alertness of the individual is essential to prevent contamination, recognize patient reactions, anticipate technique factors difficulties, etc.) Practices patient safety related to contrast materials that are used in MRI. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality and, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material usage is possessed by those who prepare it. In addition, must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient. Is certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material when necessary. Practices MRI and patient safety in order to prevent the introduction of metal in the scanner area and to reduce radiofrequency exposure to patients, staff and self. This is achieved by the use of MRI screening forms, patient interviews, screening with metal detectors/magnets, and inspection of the work area. Completes yearly MRI Safety review in a timely manner. Assists clerks by contacting outpatients by phone to confirm MRI appointments (weekdays only). Screens patients by phone and before each exam for MRI contraindications as outlined in the radiology safety policy and procedure. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes patient electronic records, exam requisition, and registering and/or editing of patient exams in the Radiology Information System (RIS) and the retrieving/sending images to the Picture Archiving Computer System (PACS). Properly identifies patient by full name, full SSN, and full DOB. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient films does not occur. The radiographer must be certain that the patient I.D. band and the request are identical. Asks each patient to verbally confirm his or her full name and full SSN and full date of birth.

Work Schedule: 10 hour shifts. Weekdays 12:00 PM-10:00 PM, Every other weekend: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Rotating holidays and on call

Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases. When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade). Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience. Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)

US Department of Veterans Affairs