Radiology / Laboratory Technologist

Summary :

Operates radiologic equipment to produce radiographs (X- rays) of body for diagnostic purposes, as directed by Radiologist.

Positions patient on examining table and adjusts immobilization devices to obtain optimum views of specified area of body requested by physician.

Move x-ray equipment into specified position and adjusts equipment controls to set exposure factors, such as time and distance, based on knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques and protocols.

Practice radiation protection techniques, using beam restrictive devices, patient shielding skills, and knowledge of applicable exposure factors, to minimize radiation to patient and staff.

Performs Computer Automated Tomography (CT) scans of the human body in accordance with established protocol as requested by physician.

Operates mobile X-ray equipment at patient's bedside. Performs blood draws and performs laboratory diagnostic testing in accordance with physician orders and laboratory policy.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

FACILITY OPERATIONS

Radiology

1. Upon receipt of order from qualified healthcare provider, performs diagnostic testing using Computer Tomography (CT) and X-ray equipment in accordance with protocol.

2. Through proper use of the radiology equipment produces a quality image and upload such image for Radiology reads / interpretations.

3. Receives radiology reads / results and posts to chart following report to the healthcare provider.

4. Maintains Radiology Department procedure log as required by policy.

5. Records other data and QA test results as required by Radiology policy.

6. Applies proper technique and safe practice while performing diagnostic testing using radiology equipment.

7. Maintains current credentials and ensures that copies of such credentials are on file and current in the Radiology Dept.

and Human Resource Department.

8. Ensures that all equipment is in proper working order and reports defects and / or deficiencies to Administration.

9. Adheres to all safety policies regarding fall prevention, infection control, and proper shielding.

10. Adheres to radiation safety policies and other applicable polices as related to the operations of the Radiology department including the appropriate use of the dosimetry badges.

11. Documents Radiology activity as required in patient’s medical chart.

Laboratory

1. Performs duties as assigned for venous blood draws for blood and body fluid samples. Uses drawn samples to perform and complete such laboratory point of care testing and send out labs as ordered by the on duty physician.

2. Reports abnormal lab testing to the health care provider as soon as possible and without delay.

3. Posts such completed lab results to the chart.

4. May perform daily / monthly QC’s to ensure proper performance and compliance in the laboratory

5. Must fulfill requirement of annual laboratory proficiency testing.

6. Reports any diversion from normal lab operations or incidents to the Nurse Director, i.e., exposures, incidents, spills, injuries, etc.

Clinical

1. Performs patient skill sets such as taking vital signs, IV initiation, veni-puncture, blood draw, documenting as needed to assist the nurse and physician with patient care.

2. Must be proficient in all skill sets as required.

3. Assists with the cleaning of the facility and radiology department to ensure a safe and sanitary work environment.

COMPLIANCE

1. Maintains confidentiality of patient related issues as outlined by HIPAA and company policies.

2. Works in cooperation with other administrative and facility staff to ensure compliance with HIPAA rule and standards as applicable to patient medical records, patient care, and diagnostic testing to include but is not limited to patient medical charts, radiology reads / results and other protected health information (PHI).

3. Ensures Radiology department operates within the compliance standard with Federal, State and applicable accrediting agencies.

4. Shall fully comply with the guidelines set forth in the Infection Control Program and any applicable Center for Disease Control (CDC) requirements relative to the operations of the facility including the Radiology Department.

5. May be required to undergo periodic review and competency testing.

6. Ensures operation and processes of the Radiology Department including any applicable standards of care are maintained at the highest possible level in all aspects in the areas of quality assurance, risk management and life safety

RISK MANAGEMENT / QUALITY ASSURANCE

1. May compile reports of radiological data (to include CT, x-ray and ultrasound) repeats, error rates and exposure and submit to Administration.

2. May perform daily and monthly QA testing and compile certain reports at the discretion of Administration.

3. Reports any violations of policies and procedure, including any incidents of over exposure, patient safety, radiation safety to the Radiation Safety Officer and Nurse Director.

4. Works in cooperation with other administrative and facility staff to ensure overall departmental compliance topics and matters directly and indirectly related to quality assurance;

risk management and life safety as applied to patient care and employee safety.

ENVIRONMENT OF CARE / LIFE SAFETY

1. Abides by the Safety and Environment of Care policies and procedures of the facility.

2. Participates in disaster and fire drills as required by the facility.

3. Ensures operational readiness of the Radiology Department as it applies to equipment, materials, supplies, maintenance and repairs.

Promptly reports deficiencies to supervisor.

4. Ensures par-level of supplies are maintained in the Radiology Department.

5. Takes steps and performs duties to ensure the Radiology Department is clean and free from hazards.

6. Reports low par-level of supplies and medications to Radiology Manager.

7. Removes defective equipment and devices from service and makes report to Radiology Manager.

8. Takes steps and performs duties to ensure the radiology department is clean and free from hazards.

9. Completes training and competencies in high level disinfection of semi-critical devices. Ensures that all ultrasound contractors properly disinfect and properly store semi-critical devices after use.

10. Properly disinfects and stored medical equipment in clean utility areas and ensures ultrasound machine and portable x-ray is connected to critical power when not in use and in ensures that all equipment is operational and ready for immediate use at all times.

11. Contacts proper support for maintenance and repair as needed for operational needs of the radiology department and contacts radiology manager of such incidents.

12. Reports all implementation of the emergency contingency plan to the on-duty physician, nurse, and radiology manager when the building is on generator power and the radiology department is not fully functional.

OTHER ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Must be adaptable to varying working conditions that may change with or without advance notice.

2. Attends monthly staff meetings, in-services and / or department meetings as required by the facility. Must attend 80% of all mandatory meetings within a one (1) year period of time.

Notice of absence from any mandatory meeting must be submitted to the Nurse Manager / Facility Administrator.

3. Must be able to work efficiently with various levels of management, vendors, a diverse workforce and patients from various demographic backgrounds.

4. May be required to travel at the discretion of the Governing Board. May be required to drive personal or company provided vehicles;

and / or travel by airplane as needed.

5. Abides by company policies and procedures and complies with all applicable State, Federal and local laws, requirements of all Federal and State regulatory agencies and requirements of any applicable accreditation agencies.

6. Takes reasonable measures to ensure that overtime is minimized.

7. In order to ensure that department is fully operational, performs department operation duties daily and as needed.

8. Ensures that the Radiology department operates within compliance with applicable policies; state, local and federal laws;

applicable codes, licensing requirements; ordinances, etc.

9. Routinely participates in various activities reinforcing reasonable and sound work activities that supports the goals of the company by performing various assigned tasks.

10. Demonstrates the ability to exercise sound judgment; apply effective written and oral communication techniques with all business contacts to include but not limited to employees, vendors, other members of administration, patients, physicians and the general public.

11. In conjunction with the other administrative and other designated clinical staff, is engaged in work productivity in the freestanding emergency room.

12. Maintains confidentiality of patient and employee related issues.

13. Treat all patients, visitors, vendors, and staff members fairly and with respect.

14. Upholds and enforces patient rights.

15. Regular attendance and compliance with attendance standards is required.

16. Takes care to perform duties and task which operate within the budget set forth by the Governing Board.

17. Position is subject to require overtime. Such position may include being required to work extended hours during the week, weekends, and holidays and during periods in which a state of emergency has been declared.

Competencies

To perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies :

Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information.

Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

Technical Skills - Objectively assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills;

Shares expertise with others.

Patient / Customer Service - Manages difficult or emotional patient / customer situations; responds promptly to patient needs;

solicits patient feedback in an attempt to achieve an optimum level of patient care

Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; maintains confidentiality; listens to others without interrupting;

keeps emotions under control; remains open to the ideas of others; and is willing to try new solutions and options

Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens for and seeks proper clarification;

responds well to questions asked; demonstrates excellent group presentation skills; participates in meetings and enrichment discussions

Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; edits work for spelling and grammar; varies writing style to meet appropriate needs;

presents numerical data effectively and legibly; and is able to read and interpret written information

• Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to the views of others; gives and welcomes feedback;
• contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts the success of the team above his / her own interests; able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives;

supports everyone's efforts to succeed

Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; Inspires and motivates others to perform well; effectively influences actions and opinions of others;

Accepts feedback from others; Gives appropriate recognition to others.

Quality - Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; demonstrates accuracy, excellence and attention to detail

Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; respectfully helps to educate others on the value of diversity;

promotes a harassment-free environment

Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; Inspires and motivates others to perform well; effectively influences actions and opinions of others;

Accepts feedback from others; Gives appropriate recognition to others.

Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically;

Upholds organizational values.

• Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; completes administrative tasks correctly and in a timely manner;
• supports the goals and values of the organization; benefits organization through outside activities and representation of the company;

supports affirmative action and respects diversity

Strategic Thinking - Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals; Understands organization's strengths & weaknesses

Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; supports and explains reasoning for decisions;

includes appropriate people in decision-making process

Motivation - Sets and achieves challenging goals; demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles; measures self against standard of excellence

Planning / Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently

Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; works well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position;

accepts responsibility for his / her own actions

Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; looks for ways to improve and promote quality; applies feedback to improve performance;

monitors own work to ensure quality and excellence

Quantity - Meets productivity standards; completes work in timely manner; strives to increase productivity; works efficiently

Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions;

Uses equipment and materials properly.

Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation;

Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.

Attendance / Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time.

Dependability - Follows instructions, responds positively to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions; commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach team and / or company goals

Initiative - Volunteers readily; undertakes self-development activities; seeks increased responsibilities; takes independent actions and calculated risks;

looks for and takes advantage of opportunities for growth, improvement and / or achievement; asks for and offers help when needed

Innovation : Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work;

Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.

Qualifications : To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Education : High School Graduate or GED equivalent, must be able to produce copy of diploma or official transcript; Graduation / Diploma / Certification from accredited school of Radiology Technology;
• Current license from the Texas Department of State Health Service for Radiology Technologist; Facility may require current Registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT);

Current Healthcare Provider (BLS) CPR certification

Physical Demands : The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Position, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk for periods ranging from 6 to 12 hours at a time.

Use hands and fingers, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; sit, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl;

talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit in short or extended intervals as required. The employee must frequently lift and / or move more than 50 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment : The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and risk of electrical shock.

The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals and risk of radiation. The employee may be exposed to various contagious diseases or conditions that have the potential of being physically, emotionally, and / or psychologically harmful.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.