Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist I or II (Evenings) - Hennepin County Medical Center

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs Computed Tomography exams under the order of a licensed medical practitioner
• Follows ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle; modifies radiation dose for individual patient’s exams in accordance with established age/weight specific protocols (including pediatric techniques and dosing), utilizing dose reduction software. 
• Reviews and verifies CT exam orders, radiologist’s protocol instructions, and patient identification in accordance with hospital policy to ensure correct exam is performed on the correct patient.  
• Assesses patient risk via patient interviews and chart review; alerts nurses and/or physicians to possible contraindications for procedure (labs, allergies, etc.).
• Ensures patient is prepared and radiologist-ordered protocols for pre-medications have been completed (e.g. contrast allergy pre-medication). 
• Assesses patient’s need for care following contrast administration; arranges renal function tests and follow up according to radiologist protocol; instructs patients to withhold medication (e.g. metformin) per radiologist protocol.   
• Provides education to patient and family members and assesses understanding.
• Provides for the physical and psychological needs of patients during CT exams, including monitoring of patient’s oxygen saturation levels when caring for patients with orders for “continuous” O2 sat monitoring; addresses issues according to hospital protocol; assesses patient’s level of pain and notifies nurse / provider as needed. 
• Performs venipuncture for contrast administration, evaluates patency of IV access; administers saline flush per protocol pre/post IV contrast administration. 
• Performs Point-of-Care lab tests for evaluating renal function prior to contrast administration. 
• Prepares and administers oral and/or IV contrast per department protocols as prescribed by a licensed practitioner.
• Ensure personnel caring for patient follow safety procedures (e.g. infection prevention). 
• Documents clinical and required regulatory information in patient’s electronic chart (e.g. IV documentation, signs / symptoms relevant to exam, contrast administration in MAR); performs order entry / modification / cancelation in accordance with hospital policies.
• Initiates response to complications and emergencies arising during exams; requests assistance from nurses, providers, and other personnel as needed. 
• Demonstrates knowledge of anatomy, physiology and effects of disease processes; evaluates images, recognizes normal vs. abnormal anatomy and notifies the appropriate Radiologist as needed.
• Handles and secures medications and equipment in accordance with hospital policies.
• Utilizes the image management system; acquire, format, manipulate, archives images to the PACS system.
• Assists physicians and residents as required with CT-Guided exams/procedures using aseptic technique as needed.  
• Assists patient with completing informed consent form, after provider has completed informed consent discussion with the patient. 
• Implements downtime procedures (manual operations) when computer systems or equipment fails.
• Maintains equipment and room in proper working condition and trouble-shoots malfunctioning equipment; takes appropriate action to address image quality issues.  Performs quality control procedures.
• Demonstrates and promotes a healthy work environment and good teamwork; makes suggestions for improvements; demonstrates and promotes patient and family-centered care behaviors.    
• Assists in organizing work flow utilizing available staff and rooms.
• Assists performing exams identified for approved IRB research.  
• Performs various clerical duties and completes additional duties/projects as assigned
• Instructs new staff and students in CT procedures and techniques.
• Performs competency evaluations for new CT personnel
• Assists with education and training of medical staff (Radiology Residents, Fellows, RPA’s etc.)
• Provides peer feedback for staff performance evaluations
• Assists in coordinating and participates in departmental continuing education in-services.