Travel CT Technologist
Ottumwa, IA
Magnet Medical
3x12 hrs, Days

Patient Preparation and Communication:

• Prepare patients for CT scans by explaining the procedure, answering any questions, and ensuring they are comfortable.
• Verify patient information, including medical history, allergies, and prior imaging, to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate imaging protocols.
• Position patients properly on the CT table to obtain the necessary images, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the process.
• Instruct patients on how to hold their breath or remain still during scans, as required by the procedure.

Operation of CT Equipment:

• Operate and calibrate the CT scanner, ensuring proper settings for each scan, including parameters such as radiation dose, slice thickness, and imaging protocols.
• Administer contrast agents or dye injections (under physician or radiologist guidance) to enhance image clarity during certain CT procedures.
• Monitor the equipment during imaging to ensure high-quality images are captured and that no errors occur during the process.

Image Quality and Review:

• Review the CT images for quality, ensuring that all required areas are captured and the images meet diagnostic standards.
• Work closely with radiologists to ensure that images are of sufficient quality to support diagnosis.
• Repeat or adjust scans as necessary to improve image quality or ensure comprehensive imaging coverage.

Patient Safety and Comfort:

• Follow safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure to patients, including using the lowest possible dose for effective imaging and utilizing shielding where appropriate.
• Maintain a sterile, safe, and clean environment in the CT room, ensuring all equipment is sanitized between patients.
• Ensure proper patient positioning to prevent any risk of injury or discomfort during the scan, especially for vulnerable patients such as those with spinal injuries, mobility challenges, or pregnant patients.
• Monitor patients for any adverse reactions to contrast agents and alert the physician or healthcare provider if necessary.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with physicians, radiologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to determine the appropriate imaging procedures and assist in diagnosing medical conditions.
• Document patient information, scan parameters, contrast media used, and any complications in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Participate in patient care planning, discussing with the team how to best approach imaging in complex cases.

Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting:

• Maintain, clean, and perform basic troubleshooting on the CT scanner and associated equipment, ensuring everything is functioning properly.
• Perform routine inspections and calibration of CT equipment and alert maintenance staff to any malfunctioning or unsafe equipment.
• Keep accurate logs of equipment use, maintenance, and any repairs or service performed.

Radiation Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all radiation safety protocols to protect both patients and staff, including the use of appropriate shielding and adhering to dosage guidelines.
• Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, including HIPAA, safety standards, and Joint Commission guidelines.
• Stay updated on changes to regulatory standards, including radiation safety, patient privacy, and procedural guidelines.

Documentation and Record Keeping:

• Accurately document imaging procedures, patient information, and any adverse events or changes in patient status.
• Ensure all documentation is compliant with hospital or clinic policies, medical record-keeping regulations, and industry standards.
• Assist with maintaining patient flow by providing quick turnaround times for imaging results when needed.

Patient Education and Support:

• Provide education and guidance to patients regarding aftercare following contrast injections, potential side effects, and follow-up procedures.
• Address patient concerns about the procedure, including fears of radiation exposure or claustrophobia, offering support as necessary.
• Ensure patient privacy and dignity are maintained throughout the imaging process.

Professional Development and Training:

• Participate in continuing education to stay current with advancements in CT imaging technology, protocols, and safety procedures.
• Attend in-house training sessions and seminars on new imaging techniques or equipment.
• Maintain professional certification and licensure, including any continuing education requirements.