Per Diem PET/CT Technologist

Job Summary: The PET/CT technologists will use exceptional communication skills to connect with patients. With a caring attitude and keen attention to detail, they ensure patient comfort, safety and satisfaction. This position effectively interprets physician orders/instructions and select appropriate software options and imaging parameters to produce the highest-quality PET/CT images/studies possible—enabling physicians to diagnose with accuracy and treat with confidence. Duties/Responsibilities: Start IVs and administers contrast according to policy and procedure as prescribed by the physician. Obtain consent (if having Diagnostic C.T.) and screen patients for past history of allergies and contraindications to contrast media prior to administering contrast. Screen patients for previous medical history (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy) for PET imaging. Document allergies, contraindications, IV contrast administration, etc. in medical record. Dispose radioactive sharps into a lead lined container according to the NRC guidelines. Maintain a working knowledge of side-effects and allergic reactions to contrast media and alerts physician immediately upon occurrence. Perform daily dose calibrator constancy as well as quarterly linearity, geometry, Chi Square, and MDA testing. Maintain records of constancy, linearity, accuracy and geometry testing in NMIS. Perform daily and weekly scanner quality control. Perform and maintain records of the glucometer testing for blood sugar levels for PET imaging. Order patient doses daily. Record and maintain any radioactivity injected into patient for PET imaging. Complete wipes and surveys in specific locations in the PET department. Survey and record incoming radioactivity from Radiopharmacy for patient utilization. Position and scan patient according to whole body imaging protocol. Measure and record patient syringe before and after injection. Verify and transfer images to PACS for interpretation after scan is complete. Perform routine CT procedures on designated portions of the body for use by physicians in the diagnosing and treating of patient illness and/or injury with minimal amount of supervision or repeats. Screen patient before exam for any precautions or contradictions pertaining to examination Explain and prepare patients for PET/CT procedures that will be performed, explaining the procedure, positioning patients so that the parts of the body can be appropriately scanned and providing patient support by talking to patients throughout procedure. Adjust scan parameters correctly and as needed, utilizing dose reduction techniques as appropriate. Maintain positive attitude and working relationships with radiologists, referring customers and other associates and peers. Follow physicians' orders precisely and conform to safety regulations to protect themselves, their patients, and coworkers. Accurately maintain patient records within Radiology Information System (RIS). Maintain an orderly and clean work area promoting good safety habits for patients and co-workers. Maintain ACR toolkit and accreditation requirements. Maintain equipment in good working order; clean and disinfect equipment after each use. Assist with maintaining an updated PET/CT protocol manual and software upgrades. Monitor medical supply inventory and orders supplies as necessary. Assist with training of new associates, providing resource and technical expertise. Required Skills/Abilities: Knowledge of Imaging processes, techniques, methods and equipment. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Knowledge of local, state and federal regulatory requirement related to the functional area. Ability to provide radiographic services to the developmental ages of patients. Ability to assess and interpret appropriate data relative to age and to provide care as needed. Ability to manage workflow and/or unit productivity. Education and Experience: Registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists: R.T. (N) (ARRT) (required) R.T. (N) (CT) (preferred. Bachelors of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology (required) CPR/Firstaid (required) Physical Requirements: Sit, stand, and walk. Repetitive movement of hands, arms and legs. See, speak and hear to be able to communicate with patients. Lift 10 – 50 pounds Lift hands and arms above own head and shoulders Stoop, kneel or crawl. Climb and balance. Carry and lift (ability to move non-ambulatory patients from a sitting or lying position for transfer or to exam).