Vascular Technician

Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Technical and Medical Director of the Vascular Lab, the Vascular Technologist serves as a clinical expert for medical and nursing staff who are seeking diagnostic studies in the Vascular Lab. They manage difficulties they may encounter while ordering vascular lab studies and work closely with Technical Director and Cardiology Manager to resolve such difficulties.

They perform as a non-invasive Vascular Ultrasound Technologist who acquires diagnostic images, ensuring that required protocol images are obtained and additional images demonstrating pathology are captured for accurate physician interpretation.

Reports to the Technical Director and in his/her absence, the Vascular Lab Medical Director. Provides technical expertise and patient care aspects of the vascular laboratory in a responsible, compassionate and qualified manner.  Is responsible for the test results, preparation of data, preliminary report writing and transmission of said data to physician and reporting software.

Operates ultrasonic equipment and performs diagnostic procedures such as carotid, venous, abdominal visceral, and arterial ultrasounds, which require the application of ultrasonic technology; Assists physicians with VNUS procedures and intraoperative ultrasound guidance under sterile technique; performs physiologic exam of the arterial and venous systems including plethysmography, with the use of exercise treadmill testing; maintains pertinent records and statistical data.

Participates in the application of studies as they relate to research protocols and communicates with staff Technologists about protocols related to such research studies.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Under the general direction of the Medical Director and Technical Director of the Vascular Laboratory, the Vascular Technologist independently performs Vascular testing which provides clinically relevant information to assist providers with diagnosis and treatment of patients.
• Operates ultrasonic equipment and performs diagnostic vascular ultrasound testing in the following areas: duplex examination of carotid, arterial, venous, aorta, renal artery and mesenteric vessels, stents, grafts, hemodialysis grafts as well as performing physiological examinations per protocols.
• Performs noninvasive vascular tests according to the policy and procedure manual and under the direction of the Vascular Lab Coordinator.
• Obtains and reviews patient clinical history and related patient test reports, takes patients history and selects appropriate test according to the policy and procedure manual.
• Greets and explains test, answers questions, reassures and positions patient correctly for optimum exam.
• Prepares exam room with ultrasound equipment to perform examination in accordance with infectious disease, patient safety protocols, policies and procedures.
• Reviews order for completeness and relevant information and contacts provider if a discrepancy in test type is determined.
• Explains reason for exam in detail and answers questions prior to testing for clarification of appropriateness of test. Obtains pertinent medical history and supporting clinical information.
• Evaluates any contraindications, insufficient patient preparation, and the patient’s ability to tolerate the duration of the examination.
• Uses proper transducer selection for appropriate test type.
• Utilizes proper positioning equipment to provide patient comfort and safety during the examination.
• Uses proper body mechanics when assisting patients and apply correct ergonomic techniques when scanning to avoid musculoskeletal injury to self.
• Evaluates and monitors patients throughout testing and alerts medical staff to any changes requiring immediate attention.
• Maintains a clean environment at all times.
• Cares for and maintains facilities, equipment, supplies, supply levels and the cleanliness of the work area.
• Performs visual inspection of equipment daily and reports concerns promptly.
• Alerts appropriate personnel of equipment interruptions and generates an electronic ticket for repair and assistance.
• Follows vascular lab policies and protocols in accordance with IAC guidelines.
• Acquires diagnostic images ensuring that required protocol images are obtained, and additional images demonstrating pathology are captured for accurate physician interpretation.
• Makes every effort to answer the clinical question asked, rather than just documenting number and pictures on digital images.
• Provides written preliminary reports and professional knowledge to physicians to facilitate treatment for critical report findings.
• Interprets preliminary test results under the direction of the Medical Director.
• Promptly contacts ordering provider with critical findings.
• Performs tests independently with minimal supervision.
• Participates in QA program and preparation for Accreditation according to IAC standards with guidance from the Medical Director and Vascular Lab coordinator.
• Attends departmental meetings as required.
• Maintains CME requirements per ARDMS and IAC.
• Maintains and develops professional practice through continuing education programs.
• Continuously updates clinical knowledge through webinars, conferences and organizations.
• Identifies personal learning needs and goals and develops suggestions to meet individual goals.
• Performs related duties as directed.

Requirements

• Associate's Degree Required; Bachelor's Degree Preferred; Field of Study: Vascular Technology.
• Minimum 3 to 5 Years of full-time experience in a dedicated Vascular Lab.
• Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) credential from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) must be attained within one year of hire.
• BLS required.
• Knowledge of growth and development principles for patients of all age groups and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit.
• Ability to recognize, identify, interpret and document normal and abnormal anatomic structures, physiology, pathology and pathophysiology based on examinations findings.
• Demonstrate willingness to participate in new techniques and procedures.
• Demonstrated knowledge of vascular testing principles and medical diagnostic imaging, including appropriate transducer selection, patient preparation, and adherence to IAC guidelines and ARDMS requirements.
• Comprehensive understanding of clinical support practices, including medical terminology, records management, quality improvement processes, and strict adherence to sterilization, infection control procedures, and aseptic techniques.

About Us

Care New England Health System (CNE) and its member institutions, Butler Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, Kent Hospital, VNA of Care New England, Integra, The Providence Center, and Care New England Medical Group, is a trusted, integrated health care organization that fuels the latest advances in medical research, attracts the nation’s top specialty-trained doctors, hones renowned services and innovative programs, and engages in the important discussions people need to have about their health and end-of-life wishes. Care New England is helping to transform the future of health care, providing a leading voice in the ongoing effort to ensure the health of the individuals and communities we serve.

Americans with Disability Act Statement: External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled must be able to perform the essential job-specific functions either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation, to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis.

EEOC Statement: Care New England is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status

Ethics Statement: Employee conducts himself/herself consistent with the ethical standards of the organization including, but not limited to hospital policy, mission, vision, and values.