PET Radiographer

Job Description

Job Summary

PET Radiographers are highly skilled healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of various medical conditions using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging technology. They are responsible for operating advanced PET scanners, ensuring patient safety, and producing high-quality images that aid in the detection, staging, and monitoring of diseases such as cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular conditions.

PET Radiographers work closely with radiologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care. They are proficient in administering radiopharmaceuticals, positioning patients for scans, and monitoring their well-being throughout the imaging process. PET Radiographers also collaborate with the medical team to interpret and analyse PET scan results, contributing to the overall diagnostic process and treatment planning.

Effective communication skills, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to patient-centered care are essential qualities for PET Radiographers. They must adhere to strict radiation safety protocols, maintain accurate patient records, and continuously update their knowledge and skills to keep pace with advancements in PET imaging technology and medical practices.

Key Responsibilities

PET Radiographers are responsible for a wide range of duties that contribute to the efficient and effective operation of the Diagnostic Services department. Their key responsibilities include:

• Operating and maintaining PET imaging equipment, ensuring optimal performance and image quality.
• Preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals to patients, adhering to radiation safety guidelines and protocols.
• Positioning patients for PET scans, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the imaging process.
• Monitoring patients' vital signs and well-being during PET scans, and responding promptly to any adverse reactions or emergencies.
• Collaborating with radiologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and other healthcare professionals to interpret and analyse PET scan results, contributing to the overall diagnostic process and treatment planning.
• Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records, including medical histories, scan results, and any relevant notes or observations.
• Ensuring strict adherence to radiation safety protocols, including the proper handling, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials.
• Participating in quality assurance and quality control measures to maintain the highest standards of patient care and imaging accuracy.
• Providing education and support to patients and their families regarding the PET imaging process, including any necessary pre-scan preparation and post-scan instructions.
• Continuously updating their knowledge and skills through ongoing professional development, including attending conferences, workshops, and training sessions related to PET imaging technology and medical practices.

Equality and Diversity

• Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.

Personal and Staff Development

• Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
• Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
• Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.

Communications And Working Relationships

• Collaborate with radiologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and other healthcare professionals to interpret and analyse PET scan results.
• Communicate effectively with patients and their families regarding the PET imaging process and any necessary pre-scan preparation and post-scan instructions.
• Work closely with other members of the Diagnostic Services department, including radiographers, technicians, and support staff, to ensure the smooth operation of the department.
• Liaise with other departments within the organisation, such as Oncology, Neurology, and Cardiology, to coordinate patient care and treatment planning.
• Represent the department and organisation at professional conferences, meetings, and events, as required.
• Communicate with external stakeholders, such as suppliers and vendors, to ensure the timely delivery of necessary equipment and supplies.

Line Management

• Assist in the training and supervision of junior PET Radiographers and student radiographers.
• Provide guidance and support to junior staff members, helping them to develop their skills and knowledge.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide feedback to junior staff members, identifying areas for improvement and professional development.
• Assist in the recruitment and selection of new PET Radiographers, as needed.
• Manage the workload and schedules of junior staff members, ensuring that all PET imaging procedures are carried out in a timely and efficient manner.
• Serve as a role model and mentor for junior staff members, demonstrating professionalism, ethical conduct, and a commitment to patient-centered care.

Organisational Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and protocols related to PET imaging.
• Participate in the planning and budgeting process for the Diagnostic Services department, providing input on equipment needs, staffing requirements, and other resource allocation decisions.
• Assist in the implementation of quality assurance and quality control measures to maintain the highest standards of patient care and imaging accuracy.
• Represent the department and organisation at management meetings and strategic planning sessions, as required.
• Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders to ensure the integration of PET imaging services into the organisation's overall healthcare delivery model.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the organisation's strategic plan, particularly as it relates to the provision of advanced imaging services and the adoption of new technologies.

Confidentiality

The post holder must be aware that Confidential Information and data to which the post holder will have knowledge and access to in the course of their employment with the AMCE is to be kept confidential, and this confidentiality is a condition of employment. The duty to maintain confidentiality continues even when the post holder is no longer employed.

This information is not to be shared with anyone outside of the AMCE under any circumstances, except to the extent necessary to fulfil any duties and responsibilities required within the role. Furthermore, upon termination with the AMCE Abuja, the post holder will return to the AMCE all confidential information held.

General

The post holder has a general duty of care for their own health, safety and well-being and that of work colleagues, visitors and patients within the hospital, in addition to any specific risk management or clinical governance accountabilities associated with this post.

To observe the rules, policies, procedures and standards of AMCE together with all relevant statutory and professional obligations.

To observe and maintain strict confidentiality of personal information relating to patients, staff and visitors.

To be responsible, with management support, for their own personal development and to actively contribute to the development of colleagues.

This job description is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not intended to be definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some of the duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review in consultation with the post holder.

All employees must hold an AMCE email account, which will be the AMCE's formal route for email communication. You are therefore required to check this regularly and to deal with such communication promptly.

Infection Control Statement

The post holder has an important responsibility for and contribution to make to infection control and must be familiar with the infection control and hygiene requirements of this role. These requirements are set out in the AMCE Code of Practice on Infection Control and in local policies and procedures, which will be made clear during your induction and subsequent refresher training. These standards must be strictly complied with at all times.

Qualifications

ATTRIBUTES

ESSENTIAL

Bachelor's degree in Radiography or a related field

Current registration with the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN)

Evidence of commitment to continuing professional Development

Desirable

Master's degree in Radiography or a related field

Professional qualification in a relevant subject

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Radiographer, with at least 3 year of experience in PET imaging

Proficiency in operating PET imaging equipment and associated computer systems

Knowledge of radiation safety protocols and procedures

Desirable

Involvement in research projects or publications related to PET imaging

Membership in professional organisations related to radiography or nuclear medicine

Management and Leadership

Ability to assist in the training and supervision of junior PET Radiographers and student radiographers

Contribute to the development and implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and protocols related to PET imaging

Participate in the planning and budgeting process for the Diagnostic Services department, providing input on equipment needs, staffing requirements, and other resource allocation decisions

Assist in the implementation of quality assurance and quality control measures to maintain the highest standards of patient care and imaging accuracy

Represent the department and organisation at management meetings and strategic planning sessions, as required

Shares the AMCE’s vision and values

Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care

Personal attributes

Professional attitude towards work

Shares the AMCE’s vision

Proactive and organised

Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care

Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues peers 

Is supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members

Commitment to caring for others

Ability to adapt to living in a new country and new culture accordingly

High levels of honesty and integrity

Languages

All applicants to have demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that are adequate to enable effective communication about medical topics with patients and colleagues

Skills in languages other than English    

AMCE Values

Able to demonstrate an understanding of the AMCE’s values

Commitment to uphold the AMCE’s values

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.