CT Technologist

Oak Lawn, IL, United States

Major Responsibilities:

Performs CT scans and reformations according to established clinical protocols, guidelines, and department operating procedures 1)Positions patients correctly, using proper immobilization techniques

2)Performs optimal scans using correct technical factors and protocols, based on the patient diagnosis, history and other revelant clinical information

3)Use correct technical factors in accordance with the American College of Radiology (ACR) to use the lowest amount of radiation to get a diagnostic scan.

4)Performs CT angiography, 3D reconstruction and post processing of computer data to enhance exams for radiologist interpretation, using reconstruction software appropriate to the pathology or region of interest.

5)Follows correct CT Department Technologist workflow (Start exam in radnet, select correct scan room and technologist, scan patient, send images to PACs, scan all paperwork and data sheets (eg. lab results/med-reconciliation sheets), complete the case in RADNET, charge for contrast media, Verify that all images, series and data sheets have been sent to PACs- make sure the number of images is correct.- Verify 0 image exams, verify exams with images and archive images on scanner and optical disc

6)Operates support equipment for CT such as: Independent workstation, pressure injector, PACs and RADNET

7)Initiates IV for administration of contrast media for CT in accordance with department policy and utilizing standard precautions - Is IV certified within 3 months of hire. Ability to recognize adverse reactions to radiologic contrast materials.

8)Prepares patient for exams by explaining procedure and by encouraging questions and answering any questions the patient may have

9)Transports patients to and from departments when necessary. Assist in transfer of patients on and off the CT table. Continually monitors patient condition during CT procedure.

10)Works with radiologist in the tailoring of protocols to meet patient exam requirements.

Accountable for obtaining pertinent patient history to provide the radiologist with adequate information for exam interpretation and to ensure procedural criteria is met. 1)Obtains and documents, confidential history (eg. lab values - BUN/Creatinine/GFR, allergy screening, surgical and dialysis history, etc), from patient, chart or family member, to ensure the appropriateness of the exam as well as administration of contrast media

2)Recognizes contraindications for IV and oral contrast per patient history, diagnosis, or protocols.

Accountable for documentation of all patient information on appropriate forms for department records related to preservation of patient records, patient statistics, billing information and supplies 1)Documents confidential patient history to ensure appropriateness of exam and contrast media

2)Documents patient charge data, modifying and initiating charges as procedure modifications are made per the radiologist

3)Documents any allergic reaction, iv extravasations and initiates incident report regarding staff or patient situations

4)Maintains appropriate inventory levels of supplies, notifies ordering personnel in a timely manner when supplies need to be ordered

5)Assists in scheduling of exams

Accountable for being compliant with established Accrediting Organization, IEMA and department safety safety standards to ensure patients and staff well being at all times 1)Maintains appropriate inventory levels of medical supplies. Performs basic quality assurance scans on all scanners to ensure safety of scanners for patients and staff - Documents daily QA in logbook

2)Promotes patient safety by reporting issues through established channels and participating as requested in safety initiatives.

3)Use correct scanning protocols, guidelines and technical factors to obtain the best quality diagnostic scan using the lowest possible radiation

4)Maintains fire safety standards

5)Initiates requests for emergency medical support as indicated by patient condition - Knowledge of when to call Code Blue/Rapid Response

6)Maintains knowledge of departmental disaster and evacuation policies

7)Maintains and constantly implements standard precautions

8)Maintains documentation of equipment malfunctions and notifies appropriate personnel

9)Attends mandatory in-services

10)Completion of all applicable of safety modules

Accountable for coordinating the scheduling of inpatients, outpatients and ER patients to ensure efficient utilization of CT equipment and personnel 1)Works with inpatient and outpatient scheduling to adjust schedules as needed

Accountable for keeping abreast of current CT procedures and new developments in the field of CT and sharing of information with staff, new hires and students. 1)Responsible for attending in-services and education seminars when appropriate.

2)Responsible for instructing other technologists on new techniques, protocols or procedures learned

3)Responsible for training of new staff and students

Accountable for keeping state licensure (IEMA), certifications (ARRT) and CPR card current 1)Copy of licensure, certification and cpr cards will be given to coordinator or manager immediately.

2)Prefer certification in CT or to be CT advanced certified within 1 year of hire.

Accountable for maintaining good relations when dealing with internal and external customers encountered in daily performance of job. (Internal customers - fellow staff members, physicians) External customers - ancillary departments, inpatients, outpatients, ER patients and family members 1)Associated is expected to follow the Advocate Standards of Behavior

2)Associate uses AIM continually when interacting with patients, family members, visitors and staff

3)Address minor customer complaints. Tactfully resolves complaints, using service recovery

4)Refers difficult complaints or sensitive issues to higher authority

Education/Experience Required:

3 year general radiology ARRT registry IEMA license CPR within in 3 months of hire

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

Basic knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and basic CT procedures Good oral and written communication skills Computer competent

ARRT registry IEMA license CPR certification (within 3 months of hire) IV certification (within 3 months of hire) Must pass advanced CT certification within 1 year of hire.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

Ability to work overtime when needed and respond to work at short notice (eg. Disaster Call back) Ability to be flexible in starting times to meet departmental demands. (weekend rotation,flexible hours, other shifts) Ability to work weekends and holidays Ability to participate in on-call programs and available to department needs with minimal notice Ability to show excellent technical competence IV certified Ability to show computer competence and equipment skill competence (eg. power injector) Ability to practice high quality patient care - very good communication skills - follows age specific guidelines Ability to demonstrate very good oral and written communication skills Good organizational skills Ability to deal with extremely ill patients - can handle stressful situations professionally Ability to make independent professional decisions using good judgement skills Ability to function independently with minimal assistance in performing job Attends education and safety inservices - completes all safety modules May be exposed to hazardous chemicals Exposed to radiation - follows radiation safety guidelines Ability to attend out of town site visits/training if needed Ability to do light, medium or heavy lifting Light: Lifting up to 20-50 pounds occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds frequently Medium: Lifting up to 20-50 pounds occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds constantly Heavy: Lifting 50 to 100 pounds occasionally and/or 25 to 50 pounds occasionally and/or 25 to 50 pounds frequently and/or 10 to 20 pounds constantly This position will recognize needs and behaviors of a variety of age groups of patients treated, i.e., understand child growth and development, normal patterns of adolescent behavior and look for signs of normal aging. Prior experience with various age groups is preferred.

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.

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.