MRI Technologist, PRN

BASIC FUNCTION :

This position will perform MRI procedures as requested by the ordering providers through established protocols, policies and procedures. This position also performs work and patient care as a member of a multidisciplinary team consisting of radiologists, radiology residents, radiologic technologists, and nurses

DIMENSIONS :

Indeterminate.

NATURE AND SCOPE :

Provides MRI imaging to patients of all age groups, from newborn to geriatric. Interacts with patients, and their families, physicians, hospital staff and other departments.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Identifies each patient and reviews their information for consistency of exam ordered, clinical diagnosis, prep and all demographic information..
• Assesses all information and factors that may contraindicate the exam, such as medications, insufficient preparation, etc.
• Screens all patients, for ferrous and RF-sensitive materials and prosthetic devices before patient enters the MRI magnetic field. Makes sure that the safety screening forms have been completed and checks for contraindications for the exam.
• Utilizes all safety devices on equipment to insure the safety of the patient and technologist.
• Reviews the patient’s chart and physician’s request to determine optimal imaging parameters for suspected pathology. Selects appropriate images coils and protocols for each exam. Knows how to revise patient position or imaging parameters to better visualize the anatomy, or pathology, according to established guidelines.
• Determines the appropriate amount of contrast agent to be administered based on the patient’s age, weight and requested procedure. Administers contrast agents according to established guidelines. Monitors patient during contrast injections for contrast infiltration or reactions and notifies the radiologist and pages emergency response team when required.
• Provides accurate explanations and instructions to the patient, significant others and healthcare providers at a level that they can understand. Addresses patient questions and concerns regarding the procedure.
• Responds to questions about MRI risk factors. Verifies that the patient has consented to the procedure, and obtains consent as needed, and makes sure the patient fully understands the risks, benefits and alternatives.
• Assesses and monitors the patient’s physical and mental condition prior to, during and after procedures. Administers first aid and/or provides life support (CPR) in emergency situations. Documents clearly any issues with the study or patient.
• Knows how to reformat images and performs special 3D imaging as needed.
• Notifies appropriate health care provider when immediate clinical response is necessary based on procedural findings and patient condition.
• Sends all images to PACS with all relevant documents. Archives images to data storage devices according to established standards
• Sends images to Nighthawk service per established standards.
• Reports all equipment failures and safety problems
• Maintains controlled access to MRI magnetic field.
• Conducts daily QA and equipment warm-up per established standards.
• The employee is expected to achieve appropriate Hospital performance and productivity standards as established.
• The employee will perform other duties that further the customer service needs of the unit, such as answering phones, greeting and escorting patients, and administrative and clerical duties upon demand. These may include entering orders, obtaining lab results (electronically or via phone call), printing CD’s and reports, scheduling appointments and call to obtain referral if appropriate.
• The employee will respond to emergent and urgent patient and operational issues.
• The employee on occasion may be requested to cover part or all of other shifts, and/or be on call.
• The employee will obtain necessary certifications as required by regulatory agencies.
• Participates in teaching programs and in-service education programs, as required, to acquaint faculty, staff and students in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging procedures.
• Enters and retrieves data from the hospital’s and department’s information systems.
• Cleans equipment, performs inventory of supplies in area, and restocks supplies as needed.
• Participates in educational activities to enhance knowledge, skills and performance.
• Provides healthcare services with respect for the patient’s dignity and age-specific needs and acts as an advocate to support the patient’s rights.
• Promotes adherence to the Health Sciences Compliance Program, the Howard University Code of Ethics and the Health Sciences Standards of Conduct.
• Attends annual and periodic mandatory Compliance Program training including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy training.
• Participates in activities that promote adherence to federal healthcare program requirements.
• Actively participates in Health Sciences Compliance Program activities.
• Maintains confidentiality of patients, families, and staff. Adheres to the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Policies and Procedures
• Assumes other duties and responsibilities that are related and appropriate to the position and area. The above responsibilities are a general description of the level and nature of the work assigned to this classification and are not to be considered as all-inclusive.

CORE COMPETENCIES :

• Computer literate.
• Capable of eliciting confidence and cooperation from the patient, the public and other healthcare providers about procedures, equipment and facilities.
• Capable of monitoring personal work ethics, behaviors and attitudes.
• Willing to evaluate personal performance and recognize personal strengths. Uses them to benefit patients, co-workers, and the profession, and recognizes opportunities for improvement.
• Capable of recognizing and taking advantage of opportunities for educational growth and improvement in technical and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to share knowledge and expertise with colleagues, peers, students and all members of the healthcare team.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relationships with staff, physicians, Hospital and University officials, and the general public.
• Capable of taking responsibility for professional decisions.
• Knowledgeable of human cross sectional anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and medical terminology.
• Competence in both oral and written English.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relationships with staff, physicians, Hospital and University officials, and the general public.

CARES CRITERIA

• Must demonstrate collaboration; accountability; respect; excellence; and service.
• Works with team members and peers in and outside of their immediate work group to create an exceptional experience for patients, students and other visitors; looks for ways to achieve departmental/institutional results by partnering.
• Accepts responsibility for his/her actions to provide health care and or ancillary functions in a highly efficient and compassionate manner. The employee must function as a Steward (Have Ownership) of the Howard values that foster a commitment to improving the patient and student experience, organizational efficiency and the environment.
• Embraces diversity; cares holistically for those we serve; treats all as we would like to be treated; manages the patient’s right to privacy with meticulous care 100% of the time and keeps patient and proprietary information about the institution confidential.
• Anticipates the patient’s and student’s needs, presents as a model representative of the institution and maintains high standards of care while striving to improve performance and create exceptional experiences for our customers.
• Behaves in a friendly, resourceful and professional manner towards all they encounter; treats patients, students and visitors in the same way that they would want their family members or themselves to be treated.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS :

Must be registered technologist through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Must have (2) years’ experience as MRI technologist.

Must be certified as a MRI technologist.

Required experience:

Required license or certification:

• Certified MRI Technologist and Registered Technologist through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

Must be able to stand, walk, sit, lift (supplies), stoop, bend, pull, push, reach, write, type (finger dexterity), file, speak, hear, see, interpret and organize for extended periods of time.
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