Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Theranostics

Job Details

Performs a variety of radiographic procedures for radiographic diagnosis as requested by the healthcare provider. Provides radiological services by exemplifying the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform a variety of radiographic procedures utilizing various radioactive materials according to protocols. Effectively assist with the administration of therapeutic radioactive materials and complete all necessary documentation.

Responsibilities

• Affords assistance in the administration of therapeutic radioactive materials and completes all necessary documentation.
• Affords assessment of the patient and determines their ability to comply with the physical requirements of the examination to minimize patient or examination problems.
• Operates mobile radiologic equipment according to daily/monthly schedule during regular operating hours and after hours.
• Follows protocol for diabetic patients on Metformin receiving radioactive material in the use of both diagnostic and therapeutic reasons.
• Adjusts to protocols and procedures under the advisement of the ordering provider, interpreting radiologist, and/or the Director/Manager of Radiology.
• Serves as the radiation safety educator of the Shenandoah Medical Center.
• Maintains proper documentation or radiation safety measures, radiation reporting badges, and manages radiation badges for the radiology department and other staff members deemed necessary to wear and radiation monitoring badge.
• Serves as the primary trainer in nuclear medicine with adequate knowledge of the system, protocols set forth by the interpreting radiologist, and various troubleshooting techniques.
• Prepares for radiation safety committee meetings in accordance to state and federal recommendation and the radiation safety officer (RSO).
• Prepares room and equipment for radiology exam.
• Disinfects all equipment before and after each patient contact.
• Fulfills infection control procedures.
• Maintains and restocks appropriate supplies.
• Fulfills established protocol in accordance with the requested procedure being conducted.
• Ensures all equipment is maintenance and in optimal function condition.
• Reports and follows up on equipment issues.
• Prepares patient for procedures.
• Transports patients to and from radiology department.
• Identifies patient appropriately.
• Validates the procedure to be performed with the patient and obtains necessary consent.
• Validates patient prep and medical history for exam ordered.
• Explains procedures to the patient effectively.
• Affords assistance in performing first aid as needed.
• Anticipates and responds appropriately to the needs of the patient and his or her family.
• Follows established radiation safety policies and procedures to protect patients and staff and performs in a manner that ensures patient safety.
• P Practices ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) and Image Gently guidelines with all patients.
• Minimizes retakes by selecting proper technical factors in the x-ray generating equipment according to exam protocol and patient condition.
• Utilizes radiation exposure reduction techniques such as proper collimation and lead shielding to minimize radiation exposure.
• Wears personal radiation monitoring device while on duty.
• Ensures visitors and staff are supplied with lead shielding or kept at a safe distance from the source of radiation.
• Performs patient documentation and completes necessary office duties.
• Ensures patient reports are received in a timely manner for the health care provider in coordination with the interpreting radiologist group.
• Ensures patient charges are accurately documented using the EHR system.
• Provides input and assists with maintaining department quality, policies, procedures, and product information.
• Provides patient demographics and reports to hospital billing system utilizing HIPAA practices.
• Safeguards correct patient exam is filed so charges are accurate for billing.
• Documents accurate and ongoing assessments of patient status related to nuclear medicine scans.
• Communicates effectively.
• Communicates and collaborates effectively with other health team members regarding patient condition, nursing plan of care, patient satisfaction needs and recommendations for meeting identified outcomes.
• Identifies and recognizes abnormal symptoms/changes in patient condition, established priorities, and takes appropriate action.
• Appropriately reports condition changes to medical provider.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Validated training in radiography and nuclear medicine.
• Knowledge of radiation safety regulations and policies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Physical stamina to perform tasks requiring standing, bending, and lifting.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and protocols.
• Proficiency in computer systems, including EHR and patient management software.