Nuclear Medicine Technologist 1/ Per diem/ Flexible Shift/ Nuclear Medicine/ Jackson West

Overview

Miami, FL On Call/Pool JW-Nuclear Medicine

Summary: Nuclear Medicine Tech 1 performs diagnostic and therapeutic examinations in the Nuclear Medicine Laboratory, including radionuclidic imaging of organs, assays of body fluids, and therapeutic administration of radiopharmaceuticals. Responsibilities include radio pharmacy, injecting, communicating with and reassuring patients, imaging, quality control, radiation protection and teaching of students and residents.

Responsibilities

• Obtains radionuclides from suppliers or by eluting generator systems, maintaining sterile technique; checks for quality as per standards set by NRC, HRS, JCAHO and radiation control; records all information in log book when on call or as assigned.
• Prepares radiopharmaceutical kits as directed in the kit instructions; performs required quality control procedures on prepared agents; places vials in appropriately shielded containers; labels, stores vials appropriately and records all information.
• Disposes of radioactivity and contaminated materials in accordance with departmental, hospital and federal regulations; removes all labels stating "radioactive" on containers that no longer contain radioactive materials prior to disposal.
• Determines proper radiopharmaceuticals necessary to perform studies and calculates appropriate doses; verifies label of isotope, draws up calculated volume using aseptic techniques, verifies activity using a dose calibrator, and records information; injects or administers dose using aseptic technique.
• Reads requisitions to note procedures and any special instructions or precautions; identifies incorrect orders and informs the supervisor; identifies patients by wrist band using two identifiers (Name and MRN) and obtains formal written consents when necessary.
• Verifies the appropriate procedure by checking the order sheet in the patient chart with the requisition and informs the supervisor of any discrepancies.
• Introduces self to patients, explains procedures and questions patients about medications, medical history, prior imaging procedures, and possible pregnancy or nursing; follows divisional policies on scanning pregnant patients.
• Selects optimum instrument and collimation, adjusts camera and computer control panel settings, positions patient and/or camera, and obtains images in accordance with established protocols.
• Assists patients onto and off imaging tables or chairs using proper body mechanics; maintains knowledge of division protocols and seeks supervisor when procedures are unfamiliar.
• Checks all films with the physician for approval before releasing patients; immobilizes patients when necessary; observes patient status and follows prescribed procedures for changes in condition; monitors gamma camera and patient during procedures.
• Evaluates the need for special positioning or additional views as requested by the Nuclear Medicine physician or supervisor; checks scan quality and reports issues to the supervisor; documents study progress or completion in the patient chart and completes related paperwork.
• Starts and completes procedures in JACKS; acquires and processes computer-generated data for patient studies and transfers studies to physicians viewing stations.
• Maintains clean and orderly work areas, ensures examination rooms are supplied, and follows hand hygiene practices.
• Schedules patients for escort services as needed; operates imaging and peripheral equipment and laboratory equipment as required by protocol manuals.
• Prepares solutions and materials, performs serial dilutions, performs venipunctures, separates blood components, and stores specimens appropriately; furnishes patients and staff with instructions for urine, stool and blood collections.
• Prepares samples for counting and performs scintillation counting; maintains quality control programs for in-vivo laboratory equipment and instruments; follows radiation safety procedures and universal precautions; reports misadministrations to the supervisor immediately.
• Assists in instruction and evaluation of student technologists or residents; participates in on-call emergency procedures as scheduled; maintains safety practices and follows infection control standards.
• Respects patient rights and privacy and adheres to hospital policies; participates in continuous quality improvement and required educational programs; assumes other duties as directed by the supervisor.

Experience

Generally requires 3 to 5 years of related experience.

Education

Graduation from an accredited program of Nuclear Medicine Technology is required.

Skills

• Ability to analyze, organize and prioritize work accurately while meeting multiple deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
• Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions; exercise sound and independent judgment.
• Knowledge and skill in use of job-appropriate technology and software applications.

Credentials

• Valid Florida State license as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist required.
• Nuclear Medicine ARRT or CNMT Certification is required.
• American Heart Association and any additional applicable life support certification for Healthcare Providers may be required at the unit level upon hire with at least 6 months validity and maintenance at the facility for the duration of employment.

Unit Specific Credential

• AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) with 6 months validity.

Working Conditions

Physical Requirements: Job function requires extended standing or walking. Must be able to carry objects weighing 21 to 50 pounds. Able to lift or move objects weighing 51 to 100 pounds with the use of appropriate devices. May require frequent visual acuity for computer work. Reasonable accommodations may be provided by the home unit/department in collaboration with the Reasonable Accommodations Committee (RAC).

Environmental Conditions: Fast-paced environment with occasional high pressure or emergent situations. Frequent interaction with a diverse population. Inside environmental conditions with occasional outdoor exposure. Exposure to various environments such as contagious diseases, toxic substances, medical gases, X-ray, chemical exposures, and other hazards. PPE required when exposed to infectious environments. Reasonable accommodations available via RAC.