Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

About the role

This position is assigned to the Radiology Service at the Memphis VA. The technologist will perform a wide range of diagnostic Radiologic exams including but not limited to: extremities, chest, abdomen, spine, fluoroscopy, operating room, and portable radiology exams. The technologist works independently, but general supervision is provided by the Radiology supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Serves as entry level through full performance level DRT. Explains exams to patients in terms they can understand as well as potential hazards. Troubleshoots equipment used for diagnostic radiology and exercises extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation-producing equipment. Reports major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representatives and assists higher graded technicians in performing more complicated examinations.
• Performs radiographic examinations of the skull, torso, and extremities or routine physical examinations, and for diagnosis of illness or injuries to accident victims. Often these procedures are performed on patients with severe injuries from accidents, patients who will not cooperate due to their mental status, paraplegic and quadriplegic patients who are almost helpless, and patients with deformities, which make it impossible to use routine techniques and positioning.
• Collaborates with higher-grade technologists or radiologists to assist with more complex procedures such as carotid angiography or other contrast studies of the venous or arterial system.
• Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms, providing diagnostic x-rays to surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures, using portable x-ray units and mobile fluoroscopic units to achieve these exams. Operates the fluoroscopic unit in the cysto suite upon request.
• Ensures the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed are of high acceptability while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. Practices radiation safety by using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, and collimation. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients, edits and registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface.
• Identifies patients and images properly, uses left and right markers to prevent mistaken identity. Explains exams to competent patients so that they understand what is to be done and what hazards, if any, are possible. Monitors vital signs, recognizes allergic reactions, and initiates cardiopulmonary resuscitation as necessary.
• Maintains equipment for proper operation, makes minor adjustments, and reports malfunctions to supervisor and/or Biomedical Engineer. Maintains required supplies in the radiographic room in a neat and orderly manner, ensuring that sterile supplies, contrast material, catheters, or other required supplies are adequate and within the use-by date.
• Works professionally, cooperatively, and collaboratively with other employees. Takes calls and may be required to perform duties at both the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr VAMC and satellite clinic locations as needed and may be required to travel.

Requirements

Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).