Special Procedures Technologist

At Houston Methodist, the Special Procedures Technologist I position is responsible for a variety of routine special procedure exams as well as diagnostic radiology procedures to include X-ray and Fluoroscopy (to include support for OR cases) and Interventional Radiology procedures of moderate complexity utilizing digital radiography and fluoroscopy techniques. Special procedures are invasive and utilize the injection or infusion of contrast media into veins or arteries; therefore this position will assist with patient preparation before procedures and perform proper sterile techniques including assisting physicians during procedures. The Special Procedures Technologist I position delivers exceptional patient care and adheres to radiation standards and guidelines established by governing agencies to ensure optimal patient safety and customer service.

FLSA STATUS

Non-exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Graduate of education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certifications, Licenses and Registrations section.

EXPERIENCE

• One year experience as a Radiologic Technologist
• Experience in Interventional Radiology (IR) highly preferred

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required

• BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) - American Heart Association and
• ARRT-R - Radiologic Technologist - Radiographer (ARRT) - American Registry of Radiologic Technologist_PSV and
• CMRT - Certified Medical Radiologic Technologist - State Licensure - Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation_PSV through the Texas Medical Board

Preferred

• ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support or Instructor (AHA)

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
• Possesses basic computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems to include, Hospital / Radiology Information Systems and Office software to maintain patient and exam documents.
• Exhibits strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team and assures delivery of excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers.
• Adapts to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision including, organizing work flow and actively participating in problem-solving.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent patient care information and data in a comprehensive manner.
• Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards department goals for retention and employee engagement.
• Communicates effectively with others to facilitate providing the highest quality service during every customer and patient encounter.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs special procedure exams as well as diagnostic radiology procedures to include X-ray and Fluoroscopy (may support OR cases) and Interventional Radiology procedures. Special procedures can be invasive; therefore the technologist will assist with patient preparation before procedures and perform proper sterile techniques.
• Proactively assesses, identifies and responds to the needs of the patient for adjustment or intervention to optimize patient care, image quality and patient experience. This includes: positioning, physiology, procedure preparation, and technical factors. Modifies technical factors to achieve desired imaging results and recognizes complications and limitations associated with certain procedures.
• Provides direct assistance to physicians during diagnostic or special procedures.
• Provides accurate explanations and instructions to patients and family members at an appropriate level utilizing verbal and non-verbal skills, terminology and language.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Follows safety standards and conducts all imaging procedures accordingly. Uses ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) to protect patients, staff and general public, and follows radiation safety standards. Maintains proper sterile techniques for procedures, regularly practices aseptic techniques, and ensures compliance with radiation safety and infection control procedures. Complies with job, department and hospital safety standards, practices and policies.
• Reports “near misses” and inputs errors promptly into appropriate hospital patient safety reporting system to improve processes and identify trends. Contributes to identification of corrective actions and improvement activities, and contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.
• Performs daily imaging equipment quality control (QC) ensuring all imaging equipment is in safe working order prior to use. Reports any malfunctions to management and regularly practices preventive maintenance procedures; calls for service if needed.
• Utilizes critical thinking skills to observe and proactively address patient reactions (i.e. contrast media and medications) or potential outcomes and obtains assistance, as appropriate.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures. Enters charges at the time service is delivered.
• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participates in department projects or shared governance activities. Assumes responsibility for growth and development by participating in in-services programs and continuing education.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a Technologist.

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

WORK ATTIRE

• Uniform: No
• Scrubs: Yes
• Business professional: No
• Other (department approved): Yes

ON-CALL*

*Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

• On Call* Yes

TRAVEL**

**Travel specifications may vary by department**

• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area Yes