CAT Scan Tech, CAT Scan

Heywood Hospital•Gardner, MA

About The Position

The CAT Scan Tech operates computerized tomography (CT) scanners to produce cross-sectional images of patients’ internal organs and tissues for medical diagnosis. The role involves interpreting physician scanning instructions, preparing and operating CT equipment, positioning patients, administering contrast materials, and ensuring images meet diagnostic quality standards. The technologist must maneuver equipment and patients, which may involve physical effort, and follow radiation-safety procedures to protect patients and staff. The position is 24 hours per week on the evening shift, with rotating weekends and holidays. The technologist supports a safe, clean, respectful care environment; protects patient privacy; responds appropriately to emergencies; and complies with hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and department procedures. The role also includes reviewing orders, coordinating schedules and patient flow, documenting and entering orders and charges in Meditech, and maintaining accurate patient and examination records.

Requirements

Graduate from an accredited school of Radiology Technology, CAT Scan Technology, or equivalent.
At least 1 year of CT experience.
Massachusetts DPH Radiology License required.
ARRT (CT) certification required within two years of hire.
Demonstrated or expected behavioral attributes include achievement motivation, concern for order, flexibility, initiative, self-confidence, self-control, customer service orientation, interpersonal effectiveness, teamwork, and information seeking.
Physical ability to exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly; frequently reach and handle objects; and occasionally stoop, crouch, and feel.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience performing CT scan procedures or equivalent experience as determined by the Department Manager.
Experience with Toshiba CT scanners.
ARRT (R) certification.
Quality-consciousness, good interpersonal skills, flexibility in handling multiple tasks, dependability, organization, independent judgment, and high technical skills.

Responsibilities

Treat everyone in a friendly, courteous, and respectful manner; offer assistance or locate someone who can help.
Advocate for patient privacy and confidentiality.
Maintain a clean and safe hospital environment and respond appropriately and promptly to emergencies.
Help provide a safe, healthy environment for patients, visitors, and staff while minimizing risk and injury.
Comply with regulations, accreditation and licensure requirements, attendance policies, and hospital and department mandatory requirements.
Report incidents in a timely and effective manner and engage in, monitor, and enforce hand hygiene practices when in direct patient contact.
Ensure CT images are of optimum diagnostic quality and satisfy required image criteria, including measurements, volumes, anatomical information, and demographic data.
Operate CT equipment, image processors, printers, and other diagnostic processing equipment; select appropriate computer and technical factors to produce diagnostic-quality images and final data sheets.
Assess patients and use appropriate exposure techniques, computer programs, equipment settings, and positioning techniques to optimize images.
Take appropriate precautions to determine whether patients of childbearing age may be pregnant and minimize potentially harmful radiation exposure when applicable.
Review physician orders and requisitions for accuracy and clinical appropriateness before examinations, and document that the order was reviewed.
Complete patient orders and charges, schedule examinations, verify image accuracy and patient information, and maintain proper records.
Enter orders and charges accurately into the Meditech Computer System.
Coordinate daily schedules and patient flow, consult with Central Scheduling, and complete examinations in a timely manner.
Follow accurate contrast injection procedures to ensure optimum contrast enhancement.
Position patients appropriately for each procedure.
Maintain a safe care environment by keeping harmful objects and substances inaccessible, preventing falls and trips, making ambulation aids available, and following policies for gait belts and similar devices.
Accommodate the needs of older patients, including fall risks, hearing difficulties, pain, and reduced endurance or strength.
Interpret verbal and nonverbal signs of pain and take appropriate actions to minimize patient pain.
Protect children’s physical security and comply with procedures to prevent neonate, infant, and child abduction.