Radiologic Tech

GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB :

The practice of radiography is performed by a segment of health care professionals responsible for the administration of ionizing radiation to humans for diagnostic purposes. A radiographer performs radiographic procedures and related techniques, producing images at the request of and for interpretation by a physician.

The complex nature of disease processes involves multiple imaging modalities. Although an interdisciplinary team of radiographer, radiologists, and support staff plays a critical role in the delivery of health services, it is the radiographer who performs the radiographic examination that creates the images needed for diagnosis. Radiography integrates scientific knowledge, technical skills, patient interaction and compassionate care resulting in diagnostic information. A radiographer must recognize patient conditions essential for successful completion of the procedures.

Radiographers must maintain a high degree of accuracy in radiographic positioning and exposure technique. They must possess, utilize and maintain knowledge of radiation protection and safety. Radiographers independently perform or assist the licensed independent practitioner in the performance of radiographic procedures. Radiographers are the primary liaison between patients, licensed independent practitioner and other members of the support. Radiographers must remain sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of the patient through good communication, patient assessment, patient monitoring and patient care skills. As members of the health care team, radiographers are expected to participate in quality improvement processes and continually assess their professional performance.

Radiographers think critically and use independent, professional and ethical judgment in all aspects of the work. They engage in continuing education to enhance patient care, public education, knowledge and technical competence.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS :

Education and Credentials : A radiographer must have successfully completed an educational program in radiologic technology. Graduates of a two-year certificate, associate degree and four-year baccalaureate degree program will be accepted. The Radiographer must be :

• Licensed by the WV Medical Imaging & Radiation Therapy Technology Board of Examiners
• Registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
• CPR Certified

Experience : It is of benefit to have experience, however, not required.

Communication Skills : Must possess good verbal and written communication skills. Must be able to communicate medical and technical information in terms that the patient can understand. Must be able to communicate with all hospital contacts both on the telephone and directly.

Reasoning Ability : Must have the ability to solve practical problems. Must have the ability to interpret a variety of instructions whether in verbal, written, diagram or schedule form. Must be able to make independent judgments as to how to obtain the best possible examination.

Computer / Typing / Mathematical Skills : The radiographer must possess keyboarding and computer skills as it relates to Radiology Information and PACS systems and hospital information systems.

Supervisory Responsibilities : The staff Radiologic Technologist must be able to work without constant supervision and may be assigned as a charge technologist in which case she / he is responsible for the direction and supervision of personnel assigned to her / his shift.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS :

VISUAL ACUITY, HEARING ACUITY AND MANUAL DEXTERITY

Must have the visual acuity to read charts and requisitions. Must be able to see to assess patient condition and communicate with the patient from a distance of 15 feet. Must be able to monitor technical equipment within job responsibilities. Must have hearing acuity sufficient to communicate with the patient from a distance of 15 feet. Must be able to communicate by telephone. Must possess manual dexterity sufficient to manipulate and operate radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment, mobile equipment, patient beds, carts and wheelchairs. Must have the ability to assist or move the patient from one location to another. Must be able to tolerate standing position for long periods of time, carry cassettes, and lift supplies.

WORK ENVIRONMENT :

Must work with equipment that has moving parts. The noise level in the work environment is considered moderate. Must be around and handle chemicals used to process x-ray films. May be exposed to blood and blood borne pathogens in routine performance of job duties.

AGE APPROPRIATENESS :

Assess developmental level and plans appropriate examination protocol related to physical, psychological, and emotional needs. Must have the ability to communicate with all developmental ages.

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