Lead Radiologic Tech

Job Summary

• The Diagnostic/CT Tech works under the direction of a radiologist utilizing radiographic, fluoroscopic and other high-tech imaging equipment.  Performs a variety of technical procedures and examinations that require independent judgement, with ingenuity and initiative to apply prescribed ionizing radiation for diagnostic purpose in accordance with the standard of practice and code of ethics of Radiologic Technologist.  Lead technologist will oversee clinical operations and act as liaison to staff technologist(s),

Responsibilities

• Performs radiographic/CT exams as per facility specific protocol.  Consistently produces high quality radiographs/CTs to include pertinent anatomy, evidence of collimation, appropriate position and exposure factors.
• Working knowledge of all equipment encompassing film/laser processing, radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment/CT operation.  Participates in department's quality assessment and improvement plan.  May be responsible for specific quality control duties in assigned areas.  May be asked to take active role in CQI.
• Applies principles of radiation protection to minimize exposure to patient, self and others, following ALARA standards.
• Assumes responsibility for assigned area assuring that all rooms/CT are clean, stocked with supplies and ready to accept the next patient.
• Documentation of all pertinent patient and procedural data, i.e. LMP, film identification, left and right markers pertinent to patient history. Documents completed procedure in patient's chart.
• Appropriate preparation and handling of radiographic/CT contrast agents, i.e. barium sulfate, oral and IV contrast agents, and effervescent granules.
• Position and prepares patient for procedure to demonstrate anatomic area of interest. Provides instructions to obtain desired results, gain cooperation, and minimize anxiety as per patient education standards.
• Contributes to the efficient operation of the department through communication either written or verbal pertaining to equipment malfunctions, continued patient activity, and other tasks always recognizing patient confidentiality.
• Patient assessment including monitoring of the patient's condition and assuming the responsibility for provision of physical or psychological needs during procedures.
• Computer literacy and application pertaining to department specific functions, including archival storage of digitalized data.  Computer literacy of the Radiology Information System.  Completes all exams performed.
• CT-Selects appropriate program for desired protocol. Demonstrate ability to produce 3D reconstructions.
• Takes lead, direct and coach diagnostic/CT staff members. Participate in selection and training of radiology/CT staff.
• To communicate with the medical director, manager, department and hospital departments when necessary.
• Working knowledge of computerized Radiography/CT to include reducing patient exposure by adjusting technical factors. To monitor growth and development of the CT Department, including patient volume and cost management.
• To develop and/or modify protocols according to the needs of the Radiology/ CT department, in conjunction with the manager, medical director and Radiologist.
• CQI - Participates in data collection (i.e. monitoring studies, research). Understands process and impacts of CQI programs. Identifies problems/trends within Diagnostic Imaging utilizing ongoing QA/CQI activities to improve the quality of Diagnostic Imaging Services.
• Available to be flexible with schedule, pull call, and any other needs of the hospital and department.
• PACS imaging management from CR to PACS to include image annotation, scanned documents, LMP, shielding, Tech comments, and performing technologist name.
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

• EXPERIENCE
  • Minimum five years experience in general diagnostic radiography, and three years CT experience preferred.
• 
  EDUCATION
  • High School Graduate or equivalent required. Graduate from an A.M.A. approved school of Radiological Technology
• 
  LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
  • NYS License, Registered by the ARRT or eligible preferred, Certificate in CT preferred
• 
  OTHER
  • Cross training in other modalities of Diagnostic Imaging, based on the needs of the department and job qualifications.

Physical Requirements 

• PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
  • Ability to manage physically aggressive patients; capability to be independently mobile; ability to transport patients on the patient mobilizer or in a wheelchair; ability to move portable x-ray machine to examination site; ability to lift 50 lbs. without assistance, lifts greater than 50lbs. with assistance, reach, stoop, and bend while maintaining a good mechanical body position; ability to wear protective lead aprons and lead gloves during exams; ability to perform tasks for a long period of time; ability to travel locally and elsewhere (including overnight stays) to attend seminars, etc. ; ability to transfer patients safely to prevent injury to patient and self; hearing and visual acuity sufficient to perform examinations, observe patients, read monitors and documents, hear equipment alarms.  Stands 80% of the time. sits 20% of the time.  Performs repetitive motion 70% of the time.  Good hearing and visual acuity.
• 
  OTHER PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to work within a limited space and in bright and low-lighted examination rooms; ability to work with reactive agents such as fixer and developer. Exposed subject to electrical and radiant energy hazards, and hazards from electric/mechanical/power equipment. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases, occasional exposure to unpleasant patient elements. Exposed to blood-borne pathogens, body fluids, and wastes; ability to exercise universal precautions.
  • Exposed to unpleasant elements (accidents, injuries, illness).  Ability to work under stress in high risk situations. Pressures due to short staffing, long irregular hours, subject to interruptions.
  • Good manual dexterity skills (full range of motion with hands and wrists) i.e., typing, lifting, holding, etc. Manual dexterity sufficient to operate radiographic equipment.