MRI TECH

Covenant Health•Harriman, TN

About The Position

The MRI Technologist performs complex tasks involving high-field-strength magnets and related equipment to produce high-quality MRI images, while maintaining a safe MRI environment at all times. The role performs examinations ordered by licensed medical practitioners for diagnostic interpretation or therapeutic intervention, selects and operates MRI systems and related equipment, chooses appropriate pulse sequences, evaluates scan quality, completes exams in the electronic medical record, and sends images to PACS. The technologist follows ACR MRI safety-zone guidelines and assists radiologists with protocol development and MRI procedures. The technologist screens and prepares patients, obtains histories and required consents, provides instructions and support, and positions patients and equipment safely and comfortably. Duties include administering prescribed medications and contrast within scope of practice, operating contrast injectors, assisting with procedures such as biopsies, coordinating scheduling and patient flow, maintaining inventory, and supporting staff and student education. The role also requires current Basic Life Support (BLS), adherence to policies and safety standards, completion of annual education, and participation in quality improvement initiatives.

Requirements

Must have successfully completed an educational program accredited by a mechanism acceptable to ARRT or ARMRIT.
Must hold and maintain one of the listed certification pathways: ARRT (R) with ARRT (MR) obtained within one year; NMTCB certification or ARRT (N) equivalency with ARRT (MR) obtained within one year; ARDMS with ARRT (MR) obtained within one year; or ARMRIT certification.
Must maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS).

Responsibilities

Perform examinations ordered by licensed medical practitioners for diagnostic interpretation or therapeutic intervention.
Operate high-field-strength MRI systems, surface coils, physiologic gating devices, and associated equipment to produce high-quality images.
Select pulse sequences and acquisition parameters in accordance with established protocols and other relevant factors.
Evaluate MRI scans for technical quality, complete the MRI exam in the electronic medical record, and send images to PACS.
Maintain the four MRI safety zones according to ACR guidelines and obtain high-quality scans in a timely manner.
Assist radiologists in developing protocols and MRI techniques and with procedures such as biopsies.
Identify and screen patients and others for MRI safety; obtain patient histories and complete and verify required consents and permits.
Instruct and educate patients, monitor them during exams using audio/visual means, and support their psychological and physical needs.
Position patients and equipment safely and appropriately, using immobilization and protective equipment and applying MRI safety principles.
Practice aseptic technique, universal precautions, and appropriate infection-prevention processes.
Identify, prepare, and/or administer medications prescribed by a licensed independent practitioner; perform venipuncture or IM injections for contrast or other ordered medication within scope of practice.
Load and operate pressure/power injectors for contrast media; administer oral or rectal contrast and perform lab draws when applicable.
Ensure time-outs are performed during assisted MRI procedures.
Coordinate scheduling and patient flow, perform clerical duties, and assist with inventory control.
Educate, train, orient, and assist new staff members and provide education to student technologists.
Maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) and perform BLS as needed.
Follow policies, procedures, and safety standards; complete required annual education; work toward goals and objectives; and participate in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
Perform other duties as assigned.