Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Theranostics

1. 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
• Assesses the patient and determining their ability to comply with the physical requirements of the examination to minimize patient or examination problems.
• Performs various procedures in imaging areas such as: X-rays, CT scan, bone density, and operate 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
• Be able to effectively make adjustments to protocols and procedures under the advisement of the ordering provider, interpreting radiologist, and/or the Director/Manager of Radiology.
• Serve as the radiation safety educator of the Shenandoah Medical Center
• Maintain proper documentation or radiation safety measures, radiation reporting badges, and manage 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.
• Prepare for radiation safety committee meetings in accordance to state and federal recommendation and the radiation safety officer (RSO).

2. Prepares room and equipment for radiology exam.

• Disinfects all equipment before and after each patient contact.
• Follows infection control procedures.
• Maintains and restocks appropriate supplies.
• Follows 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.

 3. 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.
• Assists in performing first aid as needed.
• Anticipates and responds appropriately to the needs of the patient and his or her family.

4. Follows established radiation safety policies and procedures to protect patients and staff and performs in a manner that ensures patient safety.

• 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.

 5. 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.
• Ensures correct patient exam is filed so charges are accurate for billing.
• Documents accurate and ongoing assessments of patient status related to nuclear medicine scans.

 6. 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.

 7. Performs other duties as assigned.