Department Overview
The function of the CT Technologist position within the Department of Diagnostic Imaging is to provide technical diagnostic support. CT Technologists operate multi-detector scan equipment used to capture and process images for the purpose of medical diagnosis. The CT Technologist promotes OHSU's mission Statement by delivering high quality, cost effective, family-oriented service. This position helps to create a collaborative environment by integrating education, research, and clinical leadership. The CT Technologists work with infant, pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients.
Function/Duties of Position
1. Imaging
- Operates multi-slice CT Scanners to perform exams with accuracy and efficiency, using optimal skills and knowledge of equipment.
- Demonstrates knowledge and skill to evaluate anatomy and any related pathologies for presentation to the Radiologist.
- Demonstrates knowledge and skill in CT physics & Radiation Safety.
- Exercises responsible judgment in recognizing and reporting significant situations relating to patient care.
- Prepares and instructs the patient for the diagnostic exam using age appropriate communication skills.
- Adjusts scanning factors and patient positioning to eliminate or minimize artifacts due to patient habitus, motion, implants, or monitoring equipment.
- Adheres to the ALARA principle while optimizing the exam to obtain the highest image quality with the lowest possible radiation dose to the patient.
- Must be able to perform all ranges of exams after completion of technical competencies. Continues to stay current in regards to new CT technology hardware and software upgrades.
- Demonstrates specific normal and abnormal cross sectional anatomy/pathology through the use of scan techniques, reconstructions, and 3D post-processing.
2. Documentation
- Verifies complete documentation of all pertinent information to provide accurate and timely service to customers.
- Verifies imaging order and protocol in the patient’s electronic medical record.
- Responsible for correctly identify patients by complying with Imaging dept. Patient Identification Policy.
- Labels images completely & accurately with patient demographics, position or other required documentation.
- Follows through with all aspects of scanning duties in order to provide efficient and timely completion of examinations with correct data entry, begin and complete with correct billing and verification that images are in PACS.
- Technologists prescreen all patients for sensitivity & contraindications to contrast medications used during the imaging exam.
- Implements the correct types of contrast and injection factors on a case-by-case basis.
- Generates a CD or DVD of imaging exams on an as-needed basis.
3. Personal & Patient Care and Safety
- Provides for personal and patient care and safety using professional judgment in accordance with written standards to avoid injury to self and others.
- Adheres to all established CMS, OHA, & DNV-GL Regulations, and reports errors or unsafe conditions to management and the OHSU Event Reporting (Patient Safety Intelligence).
- Follows universal precautions for blood and body fluids, protecting patients and staff.
- Explains the procedure to the patient to assure clear answers to their questions and concerns to allay any anxiety and assure patient confidence.
- Works in a safe manner by maintaining a clean work environment.
- Identifies and reports any issues for ergonomic improvement to management.
- Reports injuries to management.
- Follows established exam protocol process.
4. Effective Use of Resources
- Assists in scheduling examinations and collaborates with PAS staff in planning patient schedules.
- Utilize the Transport Tracking transportation system to arrange for patient delivery, and call for lift team assistance as needed.
- Assists with moving or transporting patients if needed.
- Participates in clinical research studies.
- Participates in teaching technical and clinical skills to radiology students and radiology residents.
5. Environment of Care
- Keeps equipment and work areas neat and clean.
- Adheres to all Infection Prevention & Control policies and procedures.
- Maintains adequate par levels of all supplies.
- Performs quality control on diagnostic equipment and maintains a logbook for daily entries as needed.
- Requests equipment maintenance as needed.
6. Professional Behavior
- Practices professional communication, appearance, conduct, punctuality, attendance, and attitude that leads to physician, patient, and co-worker respect and confidence.
- Demonstrates flexibility with workload with a positive and supportive attitude, and handles stressful situations in ways that promote positive outcomes.
- Maintains job-required licensure & continuing education in the fields of Radiology & Healthcare.
7. Compliance
- Be familiar and comply with OHSU and Diagnostic Imaging Services policies and procedures.
8. Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- CT Technologists must be licensed by the Oregon Board of Medical Imaging, have an approved and valid CPR card, and have an ARRT (CT) registry. CT Technologists who do not have an ARRT (CT) registry must be ARRT (R), or ARRT (N), or NMTCB certified or ARRT (RT) registered upon hire with documentation of CT Clinical Experience requirements; and must receive CT certification by the ARRT within 6 months of hire.
- Proficient in IV/Angio-cath starts and administration of contrast media via power injection.
- Demonstrates specific normal and abnormal cross sectional anatomy/pathology through the use of scan techniques, reconstructions, and 3D post-processing.
- Must demonstrate competency in complex CT imaging and the ability to adjust imaging parameters appropriately on a case-by-case basis.
- Must have good judgment, decision-making, and communication skills.
- Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
Extensive Emergency, Trauma, and Stroke imaging experience preferred.
Additional Details
This position works in a busy environment with frequent interruptions, multiple demands, and continuous interaction with patients and other medical professionals. Work locations include OHSU Hospital & OHSU Center for Health & Healing Diagnostic Imaging departments. Hazardous exposure risks to ionizing radiation, chemical solutions, and human tissue/fluids.
All are welcome
Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu. As an organization devoted to the health and well-being of people in Oregon and beyond, OHSU requires its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.