Job Summary
Under the direction of a Radiologist, performs radiographic procedures at a technical level not requiring supervision. Performs a variety of technical procedures that will require independent judgment; with ingenuity and initiative to apply prescribed ionizing radiation for radiologic diagnosis. Assumes responsibility for designated areas or procedures as required. Position calls for competency in four areas - general radiology, mammography (when applicable), CT imaging, Dexa imaging, and QA by performing the following duties.
Essential Job Functions
Job functions are those tasks, duties, and responsibilities that comprise the means of accomplishing the job’s purpose and objectives. Job functions are critical or fundamental to the performance of the job. They are the major functions for which the person in the job is held accountable.Job functions are those tasks, duties, and responsibilities that comprise the means of accomplishing the job’s purpose and objectives. Job functions are critical or fundamental to the performance of the job. They are the major functions for which the person in the job is held accountable.
Technical Radiologic Responsibilities
- Produce diagnostic quality radiographs for interpretation by Radiologist.
- Transport patient using judgment for type of transportation and amount of help required.
- Positions and transfers patient.
- Provides immobilization devices as required.
- Selects proper technical factor on an individual basis.
- Operates equipment as directed.
- Processes digital image and prepares image for interpretation.
- Provides radiation protection in accordance with prescribed safety standards.
- Assist in injection of contrast media.
- Responsible for detecting reactions to contrast media after injection.
- Initiate First Aid if necessary.
- Practices sterile techniques and prevents cross-contamination adhering to infection control procedures.
- Maintains confidentiality of patient exams and findings.
- Perform radiographic procedures in surgery suite.
- Completes necessary computer work.
- Performs all procedures/exams per Radiologist protocols unless stated otherwise by the ordering provider.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Receiving orders and scheduling patients accordingly.
- Maintains orderliness and cleanliness.
- Secures and returns supplies.
- Cooperates with all personnel in the proper conduct of the department.
- Rotates with department by shift as required.
- Maintains ethical relationships.
- Gathers and provides billing information for technical & professional fees.
- Provides technical expertise in writing procedures as directed by manager.
- Maintains inventory of supplies.
Maintenance
- Performs daily, weekly, and monthly Q.C & maintenance as required on all equipment.
- Attend workshops and other in-services pertinent to the Imaging Department as offered or available.
- Required to attain 24 CEU's in two-year period for Registry.
- Helps with Quality Assurance.
Special Traits/Considerations
- Technical judgment for providing quality diagnostic radiographs/images. Willingness to assist in emergencies or when required by other employees in the department.
- Must be able to work well with fellow employees.
- Responsible for patients while in the Imaging Department or under the care of imaging personnel. Must possess the ability to assess the patient status and report potential problems to the appropriate staff.
- Working in an environment of potential radiation hazard.
- Uses safe and sound safety practices with working with x-ray equipment and when performing job related tasks.
- Must be available for call shifts on weekends, and weeknights, and holidays.
- Work with patients with infectious diseases.
- Abilities to perform CT examinations.
- Accurate knowledge of the CT scanner equipment
- Prepare, instruct, and reassure patient undergoing a CT exam
- Knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy is essential
- Ability to develop image protocols for complex CT exams
Able to perform EKGs (electrocardiograms):
- Prepare, instruct, and reassure patients who are undergoing an EKG
- Working knowledge of the operation of EKG equipment
Able to perform Dexa scans:
- Prepare, instruct, and reassure patients who are undergoing a Dexa scan
- Working knowledge of the operation of Dexa scan equipment
Mammography
- Show evidence of CEU's on yearly basis necessary to perform mammographic exams
- Knowledge in requirements for ACR accreditation
- Knowledge in use of Mammography reporting system
- Working knowledge of the operation of mammography equipment
- Prepare, instruct, and reassure patient undergoing a mammogram
Note: This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employees holding this position may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school (New grads welcome, ARRT required within 3 months of hire)
- Or six months to one-year related experience and/or training
- Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Anatomy & Physiology: Deep understanding of human anatomy, cross-sectional anatomy, organ systems, and how they appear radiologically.
- Radiation Safety: Principles of exposure factors (kVp, mAs), ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), patient/staff protection, and radiation physics.
- Pathology & Procedures: Recognizing disease, interpreting exam requests, and understanding specific imaging protocols for various modalities (X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound).
- Medical Records: Gathering info from patient charts, lab results, and significant others.
- Technical Operation: Operating imaging equipment, adjusting technical factors, producing optimal images, and identifying image artifacts.
- Positioning: Accurately positioning patients for required views, even in non-routine situations.
- Problem-Solving: Adjusting techniques for unusual anatomy or challenging scenarios.
- Computer/Software: Data entry, PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) use, and system operation.
- Safety & Quality Control: Maintaining equipment, infection control, monitoring patient vitals, and reporting safety events.
- Adaptability: Responding to changes, feedback, and new technologies.
- Organization: Managing records, supplies, and workflows efficiently.
- Understanding of infection control protocols and safety procedures.
- Attention to detail- Being precise and meticulous in documenting information and performing tests/procedures to ensure patient safety and prevent errors.
- Ability to work independently and meet the demands of a Critical Access Hospital/rural hospital environment.
- Skilled at incorporating AIDET into professional practice.
- Knowledge of role in patient confidentiality and protecting patient information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure as defined by HIPAA.
- Ability to respond quickly and decisively to emergency situations and participate in shelter-in-place and disaster response protocols.
- Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams, communicating effectively with patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Ability to demonstrate the knowledge and skills essential for providing care to specific patient populations.
- Ability to lift, move, and position patients and equipment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with EPIC electronic medical record system
- Knowledge of CAH-specific regulations and rural health challenges.
Licenses & Certifications
- ARRT (R) Radiography or a graduate who is registry eligible
- ARRT (M) Mammography or a graduate who is registry eligible
- CPR / BLS
Computer Skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), secure messaging applications, and collaborative tools (e.g.) Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace. Proficient with Paycom and other Information Systems applicable to position - i.e. PACS/RIS software, Ability to thoroughly document clinical services, maintain accurate patient records, and effectively utilize electronic health record (EHR) systems i.e. EPIC
Reasoning & Critical Thinking
Apply logical problem-solving and decision-making skills in complex situations. Make sound decisions in real time, often under pressure (early warning signs, inconsistencies, potential complications) using critical thinking. Analyze data and scenarios to identify patterns, inconsistencies, and opportunities. Evaluate multiple approaches and propose innovative solutions with sound judgement. Able to work independently with limited supervision.
Language & Communication Skills
Adapt tone, style, and messaging for diverse audiences and contexts. Ability to write high quality drafts, proposals, reports, and presentations. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one meetings as well as small and larger groups, i.e. employees, customers, vendors, community organizations, etc. Collaborate across departments to relay messages and coordinate care smoothly.
Mathematics & Analytical Abilities
Ability to accurately perform basic mathematical calculations in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations and in analysis of quality assurance data. Ability to understand bar graphs and other visual representations of data. Accurately record and interpret clinical measurements. Use EMR systems and care documentation tools to analyze data trends and support treatment.
Standards of Employment
- Understand and adhere to MMHC’s compliance standards as outlined in MMHC’s Compliance Program.
- Attend all mandatory education programs and demonstrate proficiency related to general safety and regulatory compliance.
- Attend all department-specific training, and demonstrate proficiency related to safety and job-related hazards.
- Understand and follow MMHC procedures for exposure control / blood borne and airborne pathogens.
- Comply with all relevant MMHC policies, procedures, guidelines, and all other regulatory standards and requirements.
- Attire is neat, clean, and appropriate for the work environment and according to MMHC policy.
- Wear proper identification while on duty.
- Maintain confidentiality of all MMHC and patient information at all times.
- Report to work on time and maintain defined standards for attendance.
- Attend mandatory meetings.
- Able to perform essential job duties that meet job performance expectations and organizational standards while upholding MMHC mission and values.
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 job functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and taste or smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move (push/pull) up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Lifting/and or moving of more than 35 pounds shall require the use of an assistive device or team member assist. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Ability to meet physical demands of rural hospital/clinic work, including during emergency situations and/or disaster protocols.
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 occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; needles or sharps; the challenges of variable hours, shifting resources, and work situations inherent in CAH/rural settings; Hazards and/or Biohazard Medications; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; outside weather conditions; risk of electric shock and radiation; bloodborne pathogens and exposed to latex. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.