General Purpose of JobUtilizing sophisticated computer aided imaging equipment, performs quality magnetic resonance imaging to create images for diagnosis. The MRI technologist integrates scientific knowledge and technical skills with effective patient interaction to provide quality patient focused care and useful diagnostic information The MRI Technologist will perform other duties as deemed necessary.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:- To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
- The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; employees will perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor and/or hospital administration as required.
- Maintains utmost level of confidentiality at all times.
- Adheres to hospital policies and procedures.
- Demonstrates business practices and personal actions that are ethical and adhere to corporate compliance and integrity guidelines.
- Demonstrate an understanding of human cross-sectional anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and medical terminology
- Maintains a high degree of accuracy in positioning and image formation
- Maintains knowledge of magnetic field safety
- Prepares and administers contrast media (gadolinium) in accordance with DCH medication guidelines and physician order
- Serves as the primary liaison between patients/families and radiologists and other members of the support team
- Is sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of the patients/families through good communication, patient assessment, patient monitoring and patient care skills
- Uses professional and ethical judgment and critical thinking in performance of duties
- Participates in MR QA programs to continually assess professional performance
- Pursues continuing education activities to for optimal patient care, enhanced knowledge and technical competence
Maintains a high degree of accuracy in positioning and exposure techniquesMaintains knowledge of and practices proper magnetic and patient safety techniquesMaintains sensitivity to the mental and physical needs of the patient through good communication, patient assessment, patient monitoring and patient care skills
Reconfirms patient identification and verifies procedure requested or prescribed
Uses good age specific skills in dealing with the psychosocial, developmental and physical needs of the patient
Uses consistent and appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, patient, family and other healthcare providers
Verifies patient LMP status when appropriate
Determines whether the patient has been appropriately prepared for the examination
Assesses factors that may contraindicate the requested procedure, such as medication, insufficient preparation, presence of ferrous and RF-sensitive material before patient enters the magnetic field
Analysis information obtained during the assessment phase and develops an action plan for completing the procedure
Uses his/her professional judgment to adapt imaging procedures to improve diagnostic quality
Consults appropriate medical personnel to determine a modified action plan when necessary
Determines the need for accessory equipment
Reviews the medical record and the physician's request to determine optimal scanning parameters for suspected pathology
Verifies that the patient/family have consented to the procedure and fully understands any risks, benefits, alternatives and follow-up.
When appropriate, verifies that written consent has been obtained
Provides accurate explanations and instructions at an appropriate time and at a level the patient/family can understand
Administers first aid and provides life support in emergency situations
Assesses the patient's physical and mental status during the procedure
Measures the procedure against established protocols and guidelines
Identifies any exceptions to the expected outcome
Documents any exceptions clearly and accurately
Reviews images to determine if additional scans will enhance the diagnostic value of the procedure
Notifies appropriate health provider when immediate clinical response is necessary, based on procedural findings and patient condition
Reassess the patient's mental and physical status prior to discharge from the practitioner's care
Transfers images to PACS system as appropriate
Archives images to data storage devices according to established guidelines
Reviews all diagnostic data for completeness and accuracy
Ensures that all procedural requirements are in place to achieve a quality diagnostic exam
Refers questions about diagnosis, prognosis or treatment to the patient's physician
Assist in counseling staff in regard to performance, conduct attendance and other related matters
Assists in new staff orientation
Maintains prescribed standards in MR imaging
Assists in developing/maintaining MR procedure manual
Assists in resolving inter and inter departmental problems relating to MRI section
Performs weekly inventory of area supplies, orders needed items via computer
Prepares purchase order requests for delivery and non-inventory items, forward to Admin. Director for authorization prior to sending to M.M. for purchase
Assists in Maintaining the section in full compliance with all requirements of federal and state regulatory agenciesProvides basic patient care and comfort including good infection control practices, including good hand washing technique, appropriate use of standard precautionsConsistently provides the best image quality within the limitations of available resources and patient clinical statusRecognize significant clinical information and historical facts from the patient and medical record, which may affect the examinationRecognize the appearance of normal and abnormal anatomical structuresRecognize examination findings that may require immediate clinical response and notifies the interpreting and/or other appropriate physicianIdentifies any artifact producing objects and removes whenever possibleIdentifies life threatening situations and responds appropriatelyUses oral and written communication skills to interact with interpreting physicianAssists in resolving inter and inter departmental problems relating to diagnostic MRPerforms other related duties as assigned
Exercises appropriate age-specific communication skills when interacting with customers, patients, and families
Exercises appropriate age specific safety practices
Uses appropriate age specific procedural interventions
Performs weekly inventory of area supplies, orders needed items via computer
Assists in maintaining the section in full compliance with all requirements of Federal and State regulatory agenciesProvides basic patient care and comfort including good infection control practices, including good hand washing technique, appropriate use of standard precautionsConsistently provides the best image quality within the limitations of available resources and patient clinical statusRecognize significant clinical information and historical facts from the patient and medical record, which may affect the examinationRecognize the appearance of normal and abnormal anatomical structuresRecognize examination findings that may require immediate clinical response and notifies the interpreting and/or other appropriate physicianIdentifies any artifact producing objects and removes whenever possibleIdentifies life threatening situations and responds appropriatelyUses oral and written communication skills to interact with interpreting physicianAssists in resolving inter and inter departmental problems relating to diagnostic MRIPerforms other related duties as assigned
Ensures that self and MR staff members assist in the collection of pertinent information regarding equipment, the procedures and the work environment
Ensures that self and MR staff assists in the collection of pertinent data regarding departmental Process Improvement activities
Ensures that services are performed in a safe environment in accordance with established guidelinesEnsures that equipment maintenance and operation comply with established guidelines
Assesses equipment to determine acceptable performance based on established guidelinesEnsures that self and staff review protocol and procedure manuals as well as Safety, Risk Management, Radiation Safety and other pertinent manuals on at least an annual basis.
Analysis information collected and recommends whether changes need to be made to equipment, procedures or work environment; discusses any recommended changes with appropriate supervisor.
Ensures all QA checks are completed and documented in a timely manner
Assists in performing departmental safety inspections
Reports equipment malfunction to service vendors, ensuring all required documentation is completed
Education and/or Experience
Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school.
Two to four years related experience and/or training in magnetic resonance imaging or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Registry or registry eligible for advanced certification in MR imaging.
Must be registered within one (1) year after the hired date.
About Driscoll Children's Hospital:
Until all children are well. Driscoll Children's Hospital and its specialty centers, urgent care centers, and after-hours facility serve a vast area covering 31 South Texas counties. The hospital is a 191-bed tertiary care center offering 32 medical and 13 surgical specialties. Combined with our non-profit, community-based Health Plan, Driscoll Health System is an exceptional workplace for anyone with a big heart and a drive for success. Smiles, hugs and a soothing touch are as much a part of Driscoll's approach to treating children as is its advanced medical treatments and technologies. The core values at Driscoll Heath System are: Compassion, Advocacy, Respect, Excellence, and Stewardship. These values are exemplified through every position - from treating the most critical patients hands-on, to maintaining a clean environment, to keeping the organization running from behind the scenes. We invite you to learn about Driscoll's rich history and explore the laidback lifestyle South Texas has to offer.