Radiology Technologist (Bone Density)

Radiologic TechnologistUnder the direction of the Department Manager, performs interpretive, patient care and technical functions to insure proper radiologic diagnosis of patients.Compensation Pay Range: $38.10 - $55.10Essential FunctionsPatient CareConfirm patient's identity.Evaluate patient's ability to understand and comply with requirements for the requested examination.Explain and confirm patient's preparation (e.g., diet restrictions, preparatory medications) prior to radiographic/fluoroscopic examinations.Examine radiographic requisition to verify accuracy and completeness of information (e.g., patient history, clinical diagnosis).Sequence imaging procedures to avoid residual contrast material affecting future exams.Responsible for medical equipment attached to patients (e.g., IV's, oxygen) during the radiographic procedures.Provide for patient safety, comfort, and modesty.Communicate scheduling delays to waiting patients.Verify or obtain patient consent as necessary (e.g., contrast studies).Explain procedure instructions to patient or patient's family.Radiation ProtectionClean, disinfect or sterilize facilities and equipment, and dispose of contaminated items in preparation for next examination.Evaluate the need for and use of protective shielding.Take appropriate precautions to minimize radiation exposure to patient.Question female patient of child-bearing age about possible pregnancy and take appropriate action (i.e., document response, contact physician).Restrict beam to limit exposure area, improve image quality, and reduce radiation dose.Set kVp, mA and time or automatic exposure system to achieve optimum image quality, safe operating conditions, and minimum radiation dose.Prevent all unnecessary persons from remaining in area during x-ray exposure.Take appropriate precautions to minimize occupation radiation exposure.Wear a personnel monitoring device while on duty.Evaluate individual occupational exposure reports to determine if values for the reporting period are within established limits.Equipment OperationPrepare and operate radiographic unit and accessories.Prepare and operate fluoroscopy unit and accessories.Prepare and operate digital imaging devices.Image ProductionRemove all radiopaque materials from patient or table that could interfere with the radiographic image.Select equipment and accessories (e.g., grid, compensating filters, shielding for the examination requested.Use radiopaque markers to indicate anatomical side, position or other relevant information (e.g., time, upright, decubitis, post-void).Explain breathing instructions prior to making the exposure.Position patient to demonstrate the desired anatomy using body landmarks.Determine appropriate exposure factors using calipers and technique charts.Modify exposure factors for circumstances such as involuntary motion, casts and splints, pathological conditions, or patient's inability to cooperate.Process exposed image.Reload cassettes and magazines by selecting film of proper size and type.Prepare digital/computed image receptor for exposure.Verify accuracy of patient identification on radiograph.Evaluate radiographs for diagnostic quality.Determine corrective measures if radiograph is not of diagnostic quality and take appropriate action.Store and handle film/cassette in a manner which will reduce the possibility of artifact production.Recognize and report malfunctions in the radiographic or fluoroscopic unit and accessories.Perform basic evaluations of radiographic equipment and accessories.Prior to the start of any invasive procedures, a final verification to confirm the correct patient, procedure, site, and information is done.Verifies patient according to policy prior to administration of care/procedures/medications.Follows approved procedure for verifying MD orders including a verbal readback to the licensed independent practitioner after receiving a telephone order.Complies with the current CDC hand hygiene guidelines through proper handwashing, as observed by nurse manager and peers.Consistently follows the South Shore Hospital policy to mark surgical sites.Makes appropriate use of personal protective equipment at all times.Adheres to respiratory etiquette guidelines.Adheres to universal precautions.Appropriately disposes of hazardous materials.Adheres to electrical safety guidelines.Job RequirementsMinimum Education - Preferred: Graduate of an approved two-year program.Minimum Work Experience: Six (6) months to be fully proficient.Required Licenses / Registrations:RT- Radiography Technology (MA state license) or RT Temp - Radiography Technology Temporary (MA state license) at time of hireRT- Radiography Technology (MA state license) within one year of hireARRT Radiography Registration (ARRT-R) or international equivalent within one year of hireRequired additional Knowledge and Abilities: Employees must produce their CEU records to their manager prior to start date and on an ongoing basis thereafter. Technologists in this position are responsible to maintain CEU activity on-site for a period of two years longer than the technologist's last licensure renewal date