Rad Tech V

Overview

The Cath Lab Radiology Technologist possesses the knowledge and clinical skills to assist the cathing physicians with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, on patients ranging from post-adolescent to geriatric on the age continuum.  He/she works in collaboration wit the cath lab registered nurse to assure positive patient outcomes. He/she is responsible to the Director, Surgical/Cath Lab Services.  Nurse Manager, Surgery and Nurse Manager, CV/Spine Care but is directly supervised by the RN in the operating room to which he/she is assigned for scrubbing and other duties.

Responsibilities

POSITION SPECIFIC DUTIES (other duties may be assigned)

1

Complies to all safety procedures in operating equipment and applies principles of radiation safety in all laboratory activities.

2

Assists with film and x-ray quality control. Sets operational parameters on x-ray generators and associated equipment. 

3

Checks, maintains, and responsible for the proper and efficient operation/use of all generators, cameras, viewers, recorders, processing machines, physiological monitors, lab instrumentation, lasers, tables, blood analyzing equipment, pacemakers, catheters, wires, intra-aortic balloon pump, O2, vacuum suction, etc.

4

Demonstrates a working knowledge of aseptic technique by:

·       Pre-procedure hand scrub.

·       Gowning and gloving.

·       Setting up sterile cath procedure back tables.

·       Monitoring the environment to assure aseptic principles are maintained.

·       Appropriate disposal of trash, sharps, etc. and compliance to all infection control policies.

·       Sheath removal per written policy.

5

Pans table during procedures following flow of contrast and makes x-rays at the direction of the physician.

6

Transports and preps patients to assure smooth patient flow and productivity.

7

Assures that consent forms are complete and correct prior to procedure start. Notifies patient’s cardiologist if error or patient refuses to sign. Checks patient arm band to verify identity. 

8

Collaborates with admitting, surgery, CCU, TCU, ICU, 6-telemetry, PACU, etc. to assure patient flow and bed availability.

9

Completes all necessary documentation forms as appropriate, including work sheets, charge tickets, etc.

10

Monitors radiation exposure of self AND others by assuring radiation badges are worn and protective devices used consistently. Uses appropriate shielding on patients to prevent potential injury. 

11

Tests and logs results of radiographic equipment (KV, MA) on a weekly basis.

12

Performs quality control on film processing equipment daily prior to use. Checks video discs and tape to assure recording.

13

Label, load, advance, develop films.

14

Complies to all laser safety requirements. Demonstrates a working knowledge of laser set-up, calibration, probe testing, operation, and laser accessories.

15

Maintains certification in suturing of temporary indwelling lines.

16

Prepares, flushes lumens, and fills balloons on all types of diagnostic and therapeutic catheters prior to use.

17

Participates in research activities.

18

Introduces sterile guide wires for initial placement of diagnostic catheters and therapeutic guiding catheters under the direct supervision of the cathing physician.

19

Assists with manipulation of guiding and angioplasty catheters under the direct supervision of the cathing physician during catheter over wire exchanges involved with the initial placement of catheters.

20

Sets up and operates by turning, connecting, tightening, and passing wires through, as appropriate, a variety of angioplasty and diagnostic catheterization accessories such as blood pressure transducers, stopcocks, Y connectors, and injection manifolds.

21

Operates a variety of balloon angioplasty inflation devices by tightening and loosening adjusting rings or handles causing the increase or decrease in angioplasty balloon pressure, at the direction of the cathing physician.

22

Scrubs into pacemaker insertions, CPS, IABP, and open PTA’s of the extremities to pass sterile supplies from the sterile procedures table to the physician upon request.

23

Operates by activating switches, levers, or knows a variety of angioplasty, arthrectomy, ablation or other devices at the direction of the cathing physician. 

24

One hour after the last administration of anticoagulant, begin sheath removal and arterial and venous compression of the fermoral puncture site. Dress and apply a 5 pound sandbag to the wound site. Instruct patient in post procedure behavior regarding catheter introduction site. 

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS/JOB REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION:                                      

• Completion of a formal radiology Technologist course at an AMA-approved school.

EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of one year experience as a staff radiology technologist.
• A second year of experience with special procedures and EKG experience is desirable.

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSURE:

• Maintain a valid California Diagnostic Radiologic-Technology Certificate.
• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support Certificate.

OTHER SKILLS, ABILITIES & KNOWLEDGE:

• Possess the knowledge of both diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterization procedures and techniques which include equipment, accessories, surgical procedures, and sterile technique.
• Full command, both verbal and written, of the English language.
• Computer literate.