Travel Interventional Radiology Technologist
Saint Louis, MO
Magnet Medical
4x10 hrs, Days

Pre-Procedure Preparation:

• Prepare the interventional radiology (IR) suite by ensuring all necessary imaging equipment, sterile instruments, and supplies are available and functioning.
• Review patient information, medical history, and previous imaging studies to ensure the correct procedure and appropriate imaging protocols.
• Verify patient identity, allergies, and consent forms before the procedure begins.
• Explain the procedure to the patient, address any concerns, and provide reassurance to reduce anxiety.

Assisting During Procedures:

• Assist the interventional radiologist in performing a wide range of minimally invasive procedures, including angiograms, biopsies, catheter placements, stent insertions, and drain placements.
• Operate imaging equipment (e.g., fluoroscopy, CT scan, or ultrasound) to guide the physician during procedures, ensuring accurate imaging to target specific areas of the body.
• Maintain a sterile environment by assisting with sterile draping, setting up sterile instruments, and handling devices as required during the procedure.
• Administer contrast agents or dyes, as directed by the physician, to enhance visibility of blood vessels or organs on imaging.
• Monitor the patient's vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, during the procedure and report any changes to the medical team.

Patient Safety and Comfort:

• Ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure, positioning the patient appropriately to obtain optimal images while preventing injury.
• Take precautions to minimize radiation exposure to both the patient and the healthcare team by following radiation safety protocols, using shielding, and optimizing imaging settings.
• Monitor patients for signs of complications, such as bleeding, infection, or adverse reactions to contrast agents, and report findings to the physician.

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor patients post-procedure for any immediate complications, including bleeding, infection, or changes in vital signs.
• Assist in the transfer of patients to recovery or another unit after the procedure, ensuring they are comfortable and stable during transport.
• Provide post-procedure care instructions to patients, including guidance on activity restrictions, wound care, and follow-up appointments.
• Assist in the removal of catheter lines, drains, or other devices after the procedure if required, and ensure the area is clean and dressed properly.

Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting:

• Regularly maintain and inspect IR equipment, such as fluoroscopy units, imaging systems, and catheter-based tools, ensuring they are functioning correctly.
• Troubleshoot any equipment malfunctions during procedures to ensure minimal disruption to patient care.
• Keep accurate records of equipment use, maintenance, and any issues that arise with the imaging equipment.

Collaboration with Medical Team:

• Work closely with interventional radiologists, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the success of each procedure and high-quality patient care.
• Provide feedback and support to the medical team during procedures, particularly in regard to imaging quality and patient positioning.
• Participate in discussions before and after procedures to review patient conditions, procedural outcomes, and follow-up care.

Documentation and Record-Keeping:

• Accurately document all patient information, procedures performed, imaging parameters, and medications administered in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Ensure that all records are completed in compliance with hospital or clinic policies and regulatory standards.
• Maintain detailed logs of imaging procedures, contrast agents used, and patient conditions during and after the procedure.

Radiation Safety and Compliance:

• Follow strict radiation safety protocols to ensure that radiation exposure is minimized for both the patient and the medical staff, including wearing protective equipment such as lead aprons.
• Adhere to healthcare regulations and standards, including HIPAA, infection control measures, and hospital accreditation guidelines.
• Stay updated on the latest radiation safety practices, imaging techniques, and procedural advancements.

Professional Development and Training:

• Participate in continuing education and training to remain current with the latest technologies, techniques, and best practices in interventional radiology.
• Obtain and maintain certifications in radiologic technology and interventional radiology, and attend relevant workshops, conferences, and seminars.
• Mentor and assist in training new IR technologists or students in proper procedures, equipment handling, and safety protocols.