Nuclear Medicine Technologist

POSITION SUMMARY :

Under the direction of a Radiologist, performs exams at a technical level that does not require direct supervision over technical detail. Conducts a wide variety of examinations. Assists with interventional procedures. Uses independent judgment, ingenuity and acquired knowledge to obtain quality diagnostic imagesHas a constant awareness of infection control standards, the importance of sterility and an acute awareness of patient care protocols.

Responsibilities of the Technologist include an empathetic and instructional approach to patient care; the preparation, calibration, and administration of radiopharmaceuticals and pharmaceuticals (under the direct supervision of an authorized user), the performance of quality control procedures and the operation of imaging, laboratory and computer instrumentation.

EDUCATION / CERTIFICATION :

• A high school diploma or GED equivalent; verification of successful graduation from a formal educational program in Nuclear Medicine Technology accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education Programs in Nuclear Medicine.
• Must be certified by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board and / or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist upon hire.
• Must have certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support upon hire and maintain clinical competency during employment with ECHN in this role.

EXPERIENCE :

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES :

Disclaimer : Job descriptions are not intended, nor should they be construed to be, exhaustive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. They are intended to be accurate reflections of the principal duties and responsibilities of this position. These responsibilities and competencies listed below may change from time to time.

Job-Specific Competency

1. Assures that patient's clinical data coincides with and matches the type of exam that is being ordered. Follows up with Doctor's office when exam ordered is in question and does not seem reasonable given the patient's clinical record.

2. Consistently presents nuclear medicine scans of the highest quality as identified by feedback from the radiologist and department supervisor. Performs nuclear medicine examination to produce diagnostic quality images and results. Also, utilizes appropriate skills in positing patients, accurate set-up and use of all equipment.

3. Demonstrates competency and proficiency in all aspects of nuclear computer applications with minimal errors.

Demonstrates knowledge of and utilizes department protocol manual, as needed.

4. Performs therapy procedures in accordance to protocol and NRC regulations. Consistently gives I-131 doses without incident. Completes all paper work and billing associated with therapy (this includes written directive).

5. Accurately completes computer (Meditech) patient procedure documentation to include the Sonographer impression, a limited or complete exam, the date, whether it was a bi-lateral or uni-lateral, right or left, etc. Assures the accuracy of documentation understanding that all items will be charged to the patient's hospital bill. Submits correctly documented and labeled exam to the Radiologist and is available for review and discussion.

6. Independently responds on a call basis to perform procedures. Drives to affiliate and / or contracted location to provide services as may be required Available for nuclear medicine call nights, weekends and holidays, on rotating basis and able to perform all exams associated with call.

7. Receives and surveys radioactive shipments. Performs wipes and GM surveys on all packages incoming and outgoing. Fills out and files all appropriate paper work associated with this task.

8. Determines consistently when there is a need to order and when to cancel doses from Nuclear pharmacy when needed.

9. Prepares, calculates, and administers proper radiopharmaceutical via no errors. Also, fills and administers correct prescribed doses to patient.

10. Stores and disposes of radioactive material in accordance with hospital policies and NRC regulations.

11. Accurately performs and documents storage and disposal of radioactive material in accordance with hospital policy and NRC regulations.

12. Understands and performs quality control on all required instrumentation according to established guidelines.

13. Practices safe handling of radioactive material to minimize exposure to self, co-workers and patient at all times as observed by supervisor and evidenced by exposure records. Follows ALARA (as low as reasonable achievable) guidelines for radiation exposures.

14. Teaches new employees and students how to produce quality nuclear medicine exams and operate all related programs and equipment related to achieving this goal.

15. Participates in the students' clinical evaluation process. Completes required evaluation in a timely manner, to include constructive feedback.

16. Works cooperatively and exhibits Core Values at all times to accomplish all tasks as a member of the Medical Imaging Team.

17. Independently runs one's own schedule and properly documents patient flow while remaining sensitive to patients care and other co-workers needs and desires. Remains flexible in patient flow in order to accommodate daily emergency calls and requests for inpatient procedures. Assists in obtaining transportation for patients when procedures are scheduled by internal Hospitalists, Physicians, etc.