Mammography Technologist

MAIN FUNCTION:

Provides health care services, applying x-ray energy to assist in diagnosis or treatment. Performs medical imaging techniques and related procedures to demonstrate breast anatomy for interpretation and/or intervention by, or at the request of, a licensed practitioner. Exercises professional judgment in performance of services and maintains a demeanor complementary to medical ethics. Applies appropriate patient care and recognizes patient conditions essential to successful completion of the procedure.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

** 1. Performs breast imaging procedures.

1. Corroborates patient's clinical history with procedure, assuring information is documented and available for use by a licensed practitioner.

1. Prepares patient for procedures; providing instructions to obtain desired results, gain cooperation, and minimize anxiety.

1. Selects and operates breast imaging equipment and associated devices to achieve desired results.

1. Positions patient and equipment to best demonstrate anatomic area of interest, respecting patient ability and comfort.

1. Immobilizes patients as required for appropriate examination, explaining the need for breast compression during mammography.

1. Determines radiographic technique exposure factors.

1. Applies principles of radiation protection to minimize exposure to patient, self and others.

1. Evaluates mammograms or other breast images for technical quality, assuring proper identification is recorded.

1. Assumes responsibility for provision of physical and psychological needs of patients during procedures.

1. Verifies informed consent for and assists a licensed practitioner with interventional procedures; needle localizations, aspirations, biopsies and galactograms.

1. Practices aseptic techniques as necessary.

1. Performs radiography of pathologic breast specimens.

1. Understands methods and is capable of providing or assisting with physical breast inspection or palpation.

** 2. Assists in maintaining medical records, respecting confidentiality and established policy.

** 3. Assumes responsibility for assigned area and reports equipment malfunction.

** 4. Provides practical instruction for students and/or other health care professionals.

** 5. Participates in the department's quality assessment and improvement plan. May be responsible for specific quality control duties in the assigned area.

** 6. May be responsible for control of inventory, care and control of specific mammography items such as compression devices.

** 7. Maintains knowledge of and observes Universal precautions.

** 8. Understands and applies patient relations skills.

** 9. Pursues appropriate continuing education.

1. Is responsible for attendance at all mandatory educational programs.

** 11. Employee understands and demonstrates the importance of satisfying the needs of the customer/patient by interacting with him/her in a friendly and caring way, being attentive to the customer's needs, both psychologically and physically, and by taking the initiative to maintain communication with the customer in order to provide a secure and pleasant experience with the Arnot Health

** 12. It is understood that this job description lists typical duties for the classification and is not to be considered inclusive of all duties which may be assigned.

EDUCATION:

Graduate of Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation (CAHEA) accredited radiography program or equivalent. Certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in radiography and mammography. Possess valid state license to practice Radiologic Technology.

EXPERIENCE:

Should be an experienced radiographer demonstrating the knowledge base and experience to successfully complete breast procedures.

CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) REQUIREMENTS:

Heartsaver CPR required within 90 days of hire date.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Some physical effort required. Light objects lifted. Some reaching and stooping.

EXPOSURE CATEGORY:

Category I. Tasks that involve exposure to blood and body fluid or tissues.

** A.D.A. Essential Functions