CT Technologist

Major Responsibilities

• Performs CT scans and reformations according to established clinical protocols, guidelines, and department operating procedures.
• Positions patients correctly, using proper immobilization techniques.
• Performs optimal scans using correct technical factors and protocols, based on the patient diagnosis, history and other relevant clinical information.
• Uses correct technical factors in accordance with the American College of Radiology to use the lowest amount of radiation to get a diagnostic scan.
• Performs CT angiography, 3D reconstruction and post processing of computer data to enhance exams for radiologist interpretation, using reconstruction software appropriate to the pathology or region of interest.
• Follows correct CT Department Technologist workflow: start exam in radnet, select correct scan room and technologist, scan patient, send images to PACs, complete paperwork and data sheets, complete case in RADNET, charge for contrast media, verify all images, series and data sheets have been sent to PACs, verify 0 image exams, verify exams with images and archive images on scanner and optical disc.
• Operates support equipment for CT such as independent workstation, pressure injector, PACs, and RADNET.
• Initiates IV for administration of contrast media for CT in accordance with department policy and utilizing standard precautions, is IV certified within 3 months of hire, and can recognize adverse reactions to radiologic contrast materials.
• Prepares patient for exams by explaining procedure and encouraging questions and answering them.
• Transports patients to and from departments when necessary; assists in transfer of patients on and off the CT table; continually monitors patient condition during CT procedure.
• Works with radiologist in tailoring protocols to meet patient exam requirements.
• Accountable for obtaining pertinent patient history to provide the radiologist with adequate information for exam interpretation and to ensure procedural criteria is met.
• Obtains and documents confidential history (e.g., lab values—BUN/Creatinine/GFR, allergy screening, surgical and dialysis history, etc.) from patient, chart or family member to ensure appropriateness of exam and contrast administration.
• Recognizes contraindications for IV and oral contrast per patient history, diagnosis, or protocols.
• Accountable for documentation of all patient information on appropriate forms for department records related to preservation of patient records, patient statistics, billing information and supplies.
• Documents confidential patient history to ensure appropriateness of exam and contrast media.
• Documents patient charge data, modifying and initiating charges as procedure modifications are made per radiologist.
• Documents any allergic reaction, IV extravasation and initiates incident report regarding staff or patient situations.
• Maintains appropriate inventory levels of supplies, notifies ordering personnel timely when supplies need ordering.
• Assists in scheduling of exams.
• Accountable for being compliant with established accrediting organization, IEMA and department safety standards to ensure patients and staff well-being at all times.
• Maintains appropriate inventory levels of medical supplies and performs basic quality assurance scans on all scanners to ensure safety of scanners for patients and staff; documents daily QA in logbook.
• Promotes patient safety by reporting issues through established channels and participating as requested in safety initiatives.
• Uses correct scanning protocols, guidelines and technical factors to obtain the best quality diagnostic scan using the lowest possible radiation.
• Maintains fire safety standards.
• Initiates requests for emergency medical support as indicated by patient condition; knows when to call Code Blue/Rapid Response.
• Maintains knowledge of departmental disaster and evacuation policies.
• Maintains and constantly implements standard precautions.
• Maintains documentation of equipment malfunctions and notifies appropriate personnel.
• Attends mandatory in‑services.
• Completes all applicable safety modules.
• Accountable for coordinating the scheduling of inpatients, outpatients and ER patients to ensure efficient utilization of CT equipment and personnel.
• Works with inpatient and outpatient scheduling to adjust schedules as needed.
• Accountable for keeping abreast of current CT procedures and new developments in the field of CT and sharing information with staff, new hires and students.
• Attends in‑services and education seminars when appropriate.
• Instructs other technologists on new techniques, protocols or procedures learned.
• Trains new staff and students.
• Accountable for keeping state licensure (IEMA), certifications (ARRT) and CPR card current.
• Copy of licensure, certification and CPR cards are given to coordinator or manager immediately.
• Prefer certification in CT or become CT advanced certified within 1 year of hire.
• Accountable for maintaining good relations when dealing with internal and external customers encountered in daily performance of job.
• Associated is expected to follow the Advocate Standards of Behavior.
• Associate uses AIM continually when interacting with patients, family members, visitors and staff.
• Addresses minor customer complaints; tactfully resolves complaints using service recovery.
• Refs difficult complaints or sensitive issues to higher authority.

Education/Experience Required

• 3‑year general radiology ARRT registry, IEMA license, CPR within 3 months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required

• Basic knowledge of cross‑sectional anatomy and basic CT procedures.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Computer competent.
• ARRT registry, IEMA license and CPR certification (within 3 months of hire).
• IV certification (within 3 months of hire).
• Must pass advanced CT certification within 1 year of hire.

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

• Ability to work overtime, respond to work at short notice, work weekends and holidays, participate in on‑call programs, and be flexible in starting times.
• Demonstrate high quality patient care with excellent communication, follow age‑specific guidelines, deal with extremely ill patients, make independent professional decisions, and function independently with minimal assistance.
• Attend education and safety in‑services and complete all safety modules.
• Possible exposure to hazardous chemicals, radiation (follow radiation safety guidelines).
• Do light, medium, or heavy lifting: light (20–50 lb occasionally or 10 lb frequently), medium (20–50 lb occasionally or 10 lb constantly), heavy (50–100 lb occasionally or 25–50 lb occasionally or 25–50 lb frequently or 10–20 lb constantly); lift up to 35 lb without assistance; use patient‑handling equipment when lifting >35 lb.
• Recognize needs and behaviors of various age groups of patients; prior experience with adolescents and age‑specific care preferred.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.