Interventional Radiology Technologist
VCU Medical Center
Richmond, VA
Sign-On Bonus

Interventional Technologist - Radiology Angiography

$25,000 Sign On Bonus for offers accepted by June 30, 2024. Terms and Conditions apply Candidates hired into appropriate clinical ladder level based on experience New graduates welcome to apply Relocation assistance available The IR Tech I job performs the practice of interventional radiography (cardiology and vascular) and is responsible for the administration of ionizing radiation to humans of all ages (newborn to geriatric) for diagnostic, therapeutic, or research purposes. An interventional technologist performs radiographic and other procedures and related techniques, producing images at the request of and for interpretation by a licensed independent practitioner. The Interventional Radiography integrates scientific knowledge, technical skills, patient interaction and compassionate care resulting in diagnostic information and/or therapeutic outcomes. The Interventional Technologist recognizes patient conditions essential for successful completion of a procedure. An interventional technologist must demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. An interventional technologist must demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. Interventional technologists must maintain a high degree of accuracy in radiographic positioning and exposure technique. They must possess, utilize, and maintain knowledge of radiation protection and safety. Interventional technologists are the primary liaison between patients, licensed independent practitioners and other members of the support team. Interventional technologists must remain sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of the patient through good communication, assessment, monitoring, and care skills. Participation in quality improvement processes and continuous assessment of performance is expected. Interventional technologists think critically and use independent, professional, and ethical judgment in all aspects of work Engagement in continuing education to enhance patient care, public education, knowledge, and technical competence is expected in this role. The scope of practice for the Interventional Technologist includes: Determining radiographic exposure factors. Assisting LIP with fluoroscopic and specialized interventional radiographic procedures. Performing non-interpretive fluoroscopic procedures as prescribed by a LIP. Starting and maintaining intra-arterial access as prescribed by a LIP. Participating in physiologic monitoring of patients. Performing manual and mechanical hemostasis, including the use of closure devices while assisting the LIP. Applying the principles of patient safety during all aspects of radiographic procedures, including assisting and transporting patients. Receiving, relaying, and documenting verbal, written, and electronic imaging orders in the patient's medical record. Corroborating patient's clinical history with the ordered procedure while ensuring information is documented and available for use by a licensed independent practitioner (LIP). Verifying informed consent. Assuming responsibility for patient needs before, during, and after procedures. Preparing patients for procedures. Applying principles of ALARA to minimize exposure to patient, self, and others. Performing venipuncture per procedural protocol based on imaging order from a licensed independent practitioner. Starting and maintaining intravenous access per procedural protocol based on an imaging order for a LIP. Identifying, preparing, and /or administering medications generally associated with diagnostic imaging procedures as prescribed by a LIP. Evaluating images for technical quality, ensuring proper identification is recorded. Identifying and escalating emergency situations and managing until appropriate LIP, EMS, MERT, RRT, or Code Team arrives to assume control. Providing patient education related to imaging procedure. Educating, mentoring, and general oversight of students and other learners in the Radiology environment. Participating and/or performing ongoing quality assurance activities. Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire: Registry by the American Registry of Radiology Technologist (ARRT-R) or Certification by American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) New graduates must obtain ARRT-R registry prior to first day of employment Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment: Current Certification by ARRT-VI or ARRT-CI New Hires: ARRT-VI or ARRT-CI within 24 months of employment Current Employees: ARRT-VI or ARRT-CI required within 12 months of Crosswalk into Level I Team member must meet eligibility requirements and progress to Imaging Technologist Advancement Program Clinical Ladder Level 2 within 24 months of hire Basic Life Support (BLS for Healthcare Providers) Experience REQUIRED: N/A Experience PREFERRED: One (1) year of previous IR work experience. Previous work experience in an academic medical center environment Education/training REQUIRED: Graduation from a JRC Accredited Program in Radiologic Technology that is recognized by the ARRT Education/training PREFERRED: Bachelors Degree in Radiologic Technology or closely related field from an accredited program ARRT - VI or ARRT-CI Independent action(s) required: Interventional Technologists independently perform s or assist the licensed independent practitioner in the completion of radiologic imaging exams. Interventional Technologists independently complete imaging exams based on physicians written order, department protocols, and institutional safety standards. Interventional Technologists represent the goals, values, and vision of VCU Health System. Ensures adherence to regulatory standards, health system and department policies, procedures, processes, and guidelines applicable to role. Resolves basic service delivery issues. Lead technologists may perform "lead technologist" functions such as coordinating work assignments, workflow, and staffing for an assigned shift/area; serve as clinical or technical resource; provide training. Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable): N/A Additional position requirements: Individual shift rotation and schedules will be established with your specific manager or supervisor. Schedules, including requirements of shift rotations and hours of work may be adjusted as necessary to meet staffing needs of the health system. On-call, weekend and other after hours coverage may be required based on workload demand and staffing needs of the health system. Interventional Technologists are considered "Essential Employees" who may be required to report to work in accordance with the VCUHS Policy. Age Specific groups served: All Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate): Physical: Lifting 20-50 lbs. Other describe exposure to potentially hazardous and infectious substances Activities: Prolonged standing, Prolonged sitting, Walking (distance) Other:Prolonged computer interaction Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking Other: Vision Emotional: Able to handle multiple priorities, Frequent and intense customer interactions, Noisy environment, Able to adapt to frequent, change. Job Profile Summary: The practice of interventional radiography (cardiology and vascular) is performed by radiologic technologists responsible for the administration of ionizing radiation to humans of all ages (newborn to geriatric) for diagnostic, therapeutic, or research purposes. An interventional technologist performs radiographic and other procedures and related techniques, producing images at the request of and for interpretation by a licensed independent practitioner. Job Description: Core Competencies Demonstrates the ability to collect pertinent data about the patient, procedure, equipment, and work environment. Demonstrates the ability to analyze the information obtained during the assessment phase and develop an action plan for completing the procedure. Demonstrates basic knowledge related to the use of protocols, procedures, and equipment. Demonstrate the ability to perform IR exams safely and accurately with reliable information regarding the performance of equipment, materials, and processes. Demonstrates the ability to adjust protocols and procedures based on safe and effective practices. Demonstrates the ability to evaluate an exam or procedure that would meet all quality assurance standards. Demonstrates the ability to provide clear and precise documentation is essential for continuity of care, accuracy of care, and quality assurance. Demonstrates the ability to promote a positive and collaborative practice atmosphere with other members of the health care team. Expected to participate in professional organizations and scholarly activities such as research, scientific investigation, presentation, and publication to advance the profession. Advanced Competencies N/A Knowledge and Competency Novice-level experience. Competent in routine studies. Working knowledge of technical standards, scope of practice, department and health system policies, safety, and service standards. Working knowledge of imaging equipment, image processing software, instrumentation, and ancillary patient care equipment. Education, Certification & Experience The position requires Certification by the American Registry of Radiology Technologists (ARRT) or Certification by the Nuclear Medicine Technologist Certification Board (NMTCB) within the first 90 days of hire. Basic Life Support (BLS for Healthcare Providers) Responsibilities: Performance Expectation: Professional Development Employee must complete 12 ARRT Category A continuing education credits during this performance cycle. Failure to achieve the required number of credits will result in the employee being ineligible to receive an overall performance rating above "Fully Meets." Performance Expectation: Clinical Performance-Exam Preparation Assessment & Action Plan Assessment Information about the patient's health status is essential in providing appropriate imaging and therapeutic services. The Interventional technologists collects pertinent data about the patient and the procedure as evidenced by: Obtains and assesses information in conjunction with the interventional team. Gathers of relevant information from the patient, medical record, significant others and health care providers. Reconfirms patient identification and verifies the procedure requested or prescribed. Reviews the patient's medical record or other available documentation to verify appropriateness of ordered exam or procedure. Verifies patient's pregnancy status. Assesses factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Recognizes signs and symptoms of an emergency. Assesses patient risk for allergic reaction to medication prior to administration. Locates and reviews prior exams for comparison as appropriate. In emergent situations or intra-procedurally, receives, relays, and documents verbal and/or telephone orders for imaging exams per institutional policy. Identifies and removes artifact producing objects as needed. Action Plan: Determining the most appropriate action plan enhances patient safety and comfort, optimizes diagnostic and therapeutic quality, and improves efficiency. The Interventional technologist analyzes the information obtained during assessment and develops an informal action plan for completing the procedure as evidenced by: Reviews all pertinent data and assesses patient's ability and condition to tolerate the procedure. Employs professional judgment to adapt imaging and therapeutic procedures to improve diagnostic quality and outcome. Consults appropriate medical personnel to determine a modified action plan as needed. Determines need for and selects supplies, accessory equipment, shielding, and immobilization devise. Determines course of action in emergency or problem situations. Determines that all procedural requirements are in place to achieve a quality diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. Evaluates lab values prior to administering medication and beginning interventional procedures. Determines type and dose of contrast agent to be administered, based on patient's age, weight and medical/physical status. Collaborates with LIP as needed to guide decision making. Demonstrates ability to stop initiation of study and seek guidance from supervisor, resident, or attending physician if appropriateness is in question. Demonstrates ability to safely administer contrast or other imaging agents including the identification of incompatibilities and/or interactions. Performance Expectation: Clinical Performance- Patient Education & Diagnostic Exam or Procedure Communication and education are necessary to establish a positive relationship. The Interventional technologist provides information about the procedure and related health issues according to protocol as evidenced by: Verification that the patient understands and agrees to completion of a diagnostic exam. Verification that the patient has consented to the procedure and fully understands it's, risks, benefits, alternatives, and follow up (for invasive procedures). Verifies written or informed consent has been obtained. Provides accurate explanations and instructions at an appropriate time and at a level the patients and their care providers can understand. Addresses patient/family questions and concerns regarding the procedure. Demonstrates ability to utilize appropriate resources for non-English speaking/hearing/vision impaired patients and/families. Refers questions about diagnosis, treatment, or prognosis to a LIP. Provides related patient education. Explains precautions regarding administration of medications. Quality patient services are provided through the safe and accurate performance of a deliberate plan of action. The Interventional technologist follows the action plan to complete the diagnostic exam or procedure as evidenced by: Participates in the procedural timeout if indicated. Implements the action plan by explaining each step of the exam or procedure to the patients as it occurs and elicits cooperation of the patient. Collaborates with other members of the team as needed. Modifies the action plan according to changes in the clinical situation. Utilizes accessory equipment. Prepares, sets, and implements appropriate technical parameters for technical equipment such as power injector, C-Arm, etc. Collects and documents blood and tissue samples. Assesses the patient's physical, emotional, and mental status. Applies principles of sterile technique, as indicated. Positions patient for anatomic area of interest, respecting the patient's ability and comfort. Immobilizes patient for exam or procedure as appropriate. Monitors patient for reaction to medications. Performs venipuncture, checks for IV patency, and maintenance. Uses shielding devices as appropriate. Utilizes technical factors according to equipment specifications to minimize radiation exposure to the patient. Performance Expectation: Clinical Performance: Exam Completion-Evaluation & Documentation Evaluation Careful examination of the procedure is important to determine that expected outcomes have been met. The Interventional technologist determines whether the goals of the exam and action plan have been achieved as evidenced by: Evaluates the patient and the procedure to identify variances that may affect the expected outcome. Completes the evaluation process in a timely, accurate, and comprehensive manner. Evaluates the procedure against established policies, protocols, and benchmarks. Identifies and documents exceptions to expected outcome. Revises, if possible, the action plan to achieve the intended outcome. Takes action to make adjustments based on patient and procedural variances within department guidelines. Communicates revised action plan to appropriate members of the team. Evaluates images for positioning, appropriate anatomy, and overall image quality. Performs routine and specialized post processing. Adjusts imaging parameters, patient procedure, image windowing/leveling to improve the outcome. Notifies appropriate health care provider when immediate clinical response is necessary based on procedural findings, patient condition, or other relevant concerns that may impact patient safety or care. Documentation: Clear and precise documentation is essential for continuity of care, accuracy of care and quality assurance. The Interventional technologist documents information about patient care, the procedure, and the final outcome as evidenced by: Reviews all diagnostic or therapeutic data for completeness and accuracy. Formats, retrieves and/or sends images to physician review stations, PACS, and/or archive as required. Demonstrates knowledge and ability to accurately complete all documentation (written and data entry) associated with diagnostic, therapeutic, or procedural imaging exam. Documents diagnostic, treatment, or procedural exam completion in the appropriate medical record in a timely, accurate and comprehensive manner. Consistently demonstrates timely order closure and QA completion. Documents exceptions from the established criteria or procedures. Provides pertinent information to authorized individual(s) involved in the patient's care. Records information used for billing and coding procedures in appropriate information systems. Documents radiation dose/fluoroscopy time, as required. Maintains documentation for tracking implantable devices. Performance Expectation: Safety & Quality The planning and provision of safe, high quality, and effective medical services relies on the collection of pertinent information about patients, equipment, procedures, and work environment. The Interventional technologist demonstrates personal commitment to safety and quality as evidenced by: Demonstrates ability to consistently utilize safety controls (i.e. patient identification, review of imaging orders, thorough documentation, checklists, etc.). Determines that services are performed in a safe environment, minimizing potential hazard that meet or exceed established guidelines. Verifies that protocol and procedure manuals and other guidelines such as technique charts are referenced as needed. Maintains controlled access to restricted areas during radiation exposure. Follows institutional guidelines to minimize radiation exposure levels. Ensures that aprons and other shielding in use are compliant with annual testing policies. Participates in radiation protection, patient safety, risk management, and quality management activities. Monitors equipment to ensure that it meets or exceeds expected performance and maintenance levels. Escalates identified issues to appropriate resource. Assesses and maintains integrity of medical supplies such as lot/expiration, sterility, etc. Performs quality control testing and other quality assurance activities as assigned. Escalates issues to appropriate leaders for resolution. Consistently utilizes PPE and ancillary equipment in accordance with institutional policy and/or guidelines. Identifies and/or recommends process improvement opportunities to enhance patient safety and care initiatives. Timely completion of imaging exams based on priority and modality turnaround expectations. Demonstrates the willingness to participate in activities in support of performance improvement and improved clinical outcomes. Demonstrates ability to mobilize appropriate resources in response to an emergency or critical situation. Performance Expectation: Professional Performance-Caring Service Patients expect and deserve caring service in a patient centered environment during diagnosis and treatment. The Interventional technologist strives to provide caring service in a patient centered environment as evidenced by: Demonstrates collaboration and partnership skills with all members of the team including physicians, nurses, coworkers, and administrative leaders to elevate the quality of care. Participates in ongoing quality assurance programs. Applies professional judgment and discretion while performing diagnostic exams and/or participating in procedures or treatments. Anticipates and responds to patient needs. Demonstrates willingness and ability to answer questions posed by patients and/or family members in a clear, understandable, and courteous manner. Demonstrates the ability to proactively coordinate with the inpatient unit and/or other procedure areas to improve efficiency, expedite the patient's study, and coordinate care in the provision of a seamless continuum of care. Proactively seeks opportunities to remove barriers to ensure customer satisfaction. Seeks face-to-face interaction with customers as appropriate to communicate issues, delays, etc. Performance Expectation: Professional Performance-Self Assessment, Education & Leadership Self-assessment and continuing education is necessary for personal growth and professional development. The Interventional technologist evaluates personal performance as evidenced by: Assesses personal work ethics, behaviors, and attitudes. Recognizes opportunities for educational growth and improvement. Recognizes and applies personal and professional strengths. Participates in professional societies, organizations, departmental and/or institutional initiatives. Demonstrates the ability to critique own practice and identify a plan for development. Completes required education relating to practice. Maintains credentials and certification related to practice. Completes required learning and continuing education on time to maintain and enhance competency and performance. Demonstrates initiative by seeking opportunities for learning and development. Demonstrates progression towards completion of all initial and designated ongoing competencies within timeframe established by modality and is fully proficient in all designated competencies with the first 12 months of employment. Communicates barriers to successful completion of level 1 and seeks appropriate assistance for successful completion within designated time frame. Performance Expectation: Professional Performance- Professionalism/Teamwork To provide quality patient care, all members of the health care team must communicate effectively and efficiently. The Interventional technologist demonstrates a positive and collaborative practice atmosphere with other members of the health care team as evidenced by: Recognizes excellence in co-worker performance. Demonstrates individual accountability for work performance. Avoids conflict and does not participate in disruptive behavior. Demonstrates ability to share new knowledge and information with teammates, students, and others as appropriate. Demonstrates openness to different and new ways of doing things; willingness to modify one's own way of doing things to support the team. Demonstrates concern for being perceived as flexible, responsible, reliable, and trustworthy. Demonstrates a can-do attitude. Demonstrates organization and ability to multitask to ensure an efficient and safe operation. Demonstrates ability to recognize own limitations and to ask for assistance when necessary, in order to meet workload demands. Communicates requests for schedule changes and/or PTO in accordance with supervisor expectations and department policy. Adjusts schedules, duties, etc. to support needs of department and health system. Demonstrates ability to initiate resolutions to problems independently; but consults with team to assist with problem resolutions as needed. Demonstrates ability to ensure that information is passed on to others who should be kept informed. Ensures supplies appropriately ordered and/or stocked to meet patient care needs. Prepare work area for next shift prior to departure by ensuring a clean and organized work environment. Volunteers to cover open shifts. Contributes to successful operation of the modality. Accepts coaching gracefully and open to constructive feedback. Demonstrates commitment to departmental and organizational priorities. Familiarizes self with departmental and health system policies. Performance Expectation: Professional Performance-Fiscal Responsibility Responsible stewardship of health systems resources is everyone's responsibility. The Interventional technologist demonstrates responsible stewardship of health system resources as evidenced by: Demonstrates ability correctly and accurately complete charge entry processes. Complies with timely order completion policies. Responsibly utilizes medical supplies. Adjusts schedules to work in add on patients as appropriate. Clocks in and out on time and in accordance with health system timekeeping policies. Seeks to minimize unnecessary overtime. Maintains compliance with VCUHS attendance policy for tardiness, unplanned absences, and requests for paid time off. Performance Expectation: Miscellaneous Responsibilities Performs other duties as assigned and/or participate in special projects in order to support the mission VCUHS and Radiology. Provides assistance to team members. Accepts alternate assignments, as required, graciously. Workday Day (United States of America) EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran/41 CFR 60-1.4.