CT Technologist

CT Technologist - Job Description

Position Summary

The CT Technologist provides safe, high-quality patient care while performing diagnostic computed tomography examinations in an outpatient center or mobile imaging environment. This position prepares and educates patients, operates CT equipment, acquires and reconstructs diagnostic images, administers contrast media when authorized, follows radiation-safety and quality-control standards, and ensures accurate, timely documentation for radiologist interpretation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review orders, verify patient identity, assess patient needs, and provide age-appropriate education and instructions.
• Prepare and position patients, select appropriate protocols, and operate CT equipment to acquire, reconstruct, process, and archive diagnostic-quality images while minimizing radiation exposure.
• Screen patients for contrast-related risks; establish venous access, administer contrast when authorized, monitor patients, and respond to reactions or changes in condition according to established procedures.
• Evaluate images for quality and completeness, make necessary technical adjustments, and prepare studies for timely radiologist interpretation.
• Accurately document examinations, patient history, technical factors, and contrast administration in applicable imaging and information systems.
• Perform quality-control checks, maintain procedure-ready rooms and supplies, and promptly report equipment, image-quality, or safety concerns.
• Follow infection-prevention, radiation-safety, privacy, medication-safety, Environment of Care, legal, organizational, ARRT, and professional ethics requirements.
• Collaborate with the care team to support efficient patient flow, complete assigned work, participate in required training and quality activities, and perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Certification, and Experience:

• Graduate of an accredited radiography program.
• Current CT Certification and ARRT Certification.
• Current state license or permit, if required for the practice location.
• One year of CT experience, or successful completion of a formal CT training program that includes at least 500 clinical hours.
• Meets all continuing education, competency, and credential-maintenance requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of CT anatomy, physiology, pathology, protocols, radiation protection, dose optimization, contrast media, and image-quality principles.
• Ability to provide respectful, patient-centered care to individuals with varied ages, abilities, and clinical needs.
• Skill in patient assessment, positioning, venipuncture, contrast administration, image evaluation, and emergency response within scope of practice.
• Proficiency with CT equipment, injectors, PACS, RIS, electronic health records, and standard office technology.

Equipment Used:

• CT scanners, operator console, power injector, image-processing workstation, patient-transfer devices, and quality-control tools.
• PACS, RIS, electronic health records, communication systems, and standard office equipment.
• Emergency and patient-monitoring equipment appropriate to the care setting.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Work is performed in an outpatient imaging center or mobile imaging unit.
• Regular exposure to ionizing radiation, contrast media, blood or body fluids, cleaning agents, and other clinical hazards; required protective practices and equipment must be used.
• Frequent standing, walking, reaching, bending, and repetitive equipment operation.
• Regularly assists with moving, transferring, and positioning patients and equipment, with assistive devices or team support when appropriate.
• Must be able to respond promptly to patient needs and emergencies and work effectively in confined or mobile-unit spaces.