SUMMARY: Under the general supervision of the Radiologist, Medical and Radiation Oncologists, and Director of Imaging, the CT Technologist performs high-quality CT exams and Bone Densitometry procedures in accordance with physician orders, departmental protocols, and established standards of care. The CT Technologist is responsible for providing safe, compassionate and patient-centered care while ensuring diagnostic image quality and maintaining compliance with radiation safety principles. This role collaborates with physicians and healthcare team members to support efficient workflows and optimize patient outcomes. The CT Technologist operates and maintains CT imaging equipment, performs imaging reconstruction and post processing, and administers contrast media as appropriate.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- CT Technologist Duties
- Participate in CT and Bone Densitometry exams to maintain competency and ensure quality of care during operating hours.
- Monitor patients, reviews exams, reconstructs images, and ensures exams are done timely.
- Assist with the development of radiology policies and procedures to enhance workflow and accuracy of exams.
- Serve as a contact for Radiation and Medical Oncologists, Radiologists, Radiology staff, and other staff members.
- Clinical Practice
- Perform CT and Bone Densitometry examinations according to physician orders and departmental protocols.
- Prepare patients, equipment, and examination rooms for procedures.
- Explain procedures to the patients, obtain required consents, and address patient concerns.
- Administer IV contrast media and monitor patients for adverse reactions.
- Acquire, reconstruct, and evaluate diagnostic images for quality.
- Maintain compliance with radiation safety standards and infection control practices.
- Document all aspects of patient care and imaging procedures in the medical record.
- Perform ordered CT and Bone Density examinations of the appropriate anatomical regions in accordance with established standards of practice, departmental protocols, and physician guidelines.,
- Select appropriate imaging parameters
- Position the patient accurately to obtain high-quality images
- Perform image acquisition, processing, reconstruction, and analysis
- Ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the exam.
- Maintain credentialing and competency through continued education and ongoing training.
- Administer contrast media in accordance with physician direction and department protocols.
- Adhere to radiation safety standards and ALARA principles to minimize radiation exposure for patients and staff.
- Demonstrate skill in the operation and use of CT and Bone Densitometry imaging equipment.
- Maintain inventory of supplies and linen for the department.
- Perform routine equipment quality assurance testing and preventative maintenance procedures.
- Coordinate scheduling of CT procedures to provide smooth and efficient patient flow with consideration for shared equipment.
- Maintain radiation protection procedures to comply with regulatory requirements.
- Submit billing in an accurate and timely manner for CT procedures through EPIC Radiant system.
- Retrieve imaging reports from other practices when requested.
- Make appropriate copies of exams when requested.
- Support Radiation Oncology services by assisting with CT simulations, patient positioning, and other technical procedures as needed.
- Professional Communication
- Maintain confidentiality according to HIPAA regulations.
- Interact with patients/family/significant others with a variety of developmental and sociocultural backgrounds.
- Provide information to patients and family/significant others that reduces anxiety and conveys an attitude of acceptance, sensitivity and caring.
- Maintain professional relationships and conveys relevant information to other members of the health care team.
Internal Contacts: physicians, other radiology technologists, secretaries, nursing staff, laboratory staff, billing representatives, etc.
External Contacts: physicists, vendors, contract maintenance personnel, hospitals, radiology departments, couriers, pharmacies, laboratories, floor nurses, other physician offices, etc.
- Relays information appropriately over telephones and other communication devices.
- Teamwork
- Work collaboratively as a healthcare team member.
- Assist with tasks necessary for the general operation of the department.
- Maintain positive attitude with patients, family/significant others and coworkers.
- Professional Development
- Attend staff meetings and mandatory in-services.
- Participate in continuing education opportunities.
- Obtain necessary certifications and licensure, such as: CPR certification, Radiology Technologist, CT Technologist and IEMA licenses.
- Contribute to the quality of patient care and participates in quality improvement initiatives.
OTHER DUTIES:
Perform other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS: American Registry of Radiologic Technology in Radiologic Technology RT(R) certification or registry eligible is required. American Registry of Radiologic Technology in Radiology and CT certification (ARRT/RT (R) (CT)) or registry eligible. A Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologists (CNMT) who has obtained Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board, Computed Tomography certification, [NMTCB(CT)], is also acceptable. Current licensure in the State of Illinois for practice in Radiology Certification by or eligibility for the computed tomography certification board is preferred. Current CPR certification or willingness to become certified. Must take EPIC training and successfully pass required tests.
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: One to three years of CT experience preferred.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES: Knowledge of CT procedures, equipment operation, basic radiation physics and safety and patient care techniques as required through an approved program in Radiology. Ability to function in a fast-paced work environment related to patients with acute, chronic, and complex disease processes. Efficient verbal and written English communication skills for safe and effective patient care. Organization and interpersonal skills with team members in and out of the department. Understands and practices patient confidentiality with every encounter. A positive attitude towards healthcare team members and diverse patient populations.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF JOB: Standing, walking, sitting, carrying, pushing, pulling, lifting, climbing, balancing, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, twisting, reaching, handling, kneeling, and wrist and digital dexterity. Patient lifting, ambulating, and transfer of patients in wheelchairs, on gurneys and beds. Speaking, hearing, and visual acuity to assess patients and administer treatments; receive and interpret instructions; communicate with other health care professionals; chart; and operate equipment. Exerting force (frequently up to 10-20 pounds and occasionally more) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including supplies, medical charts, x-rays, treatment aids, etc. Able to support persons (possibly 200 pounds or more) in emergency situations. Able to move quickly from place to place on occasion. Possible driving.
MENTAL DEMANDS: Must be able to work under stress and adapt to changing conditions.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Job duties involve the potential for exposure to blood and body fluids, ionizing radiation, chemical disinfectants, radiology chemicals, and metal alloys. Normal patient care environment.