1) Consistently performs all nuclear medicine and cardiology procedures independently, and accurately, including general nuclear medicine, cardiac, and therapeutic exams to the specifications provided by the clinical director of the nuclear medicine department. Processes and labels post acquisition data thus providing the interpreting physician with a high quality diagnostic study. Responsible for accurately documenting data into the computer information systems e.g. RIS, CVIS, PACS systems, etc.
2) Explains stress test procedure to patient, obtains full medical history, provides documentation of patient history to medical staff to determine if procedure is appropriate and prepares patient for electrocardiogram. Once patient is cleared initiate procedure via department protocol, monitors and documents necessary findings. Collaborates with additional nuclear medicine staff for appropriate injection time for cardiac perfusion studies. Determines appropriate time to discontinue exercise stress test. Records pertinent information on electrocardiogram and communicate abnormal finding to appropriate medical staff. Initiates emergency procedures according to established hospital policy. Prepares patient charts according to procedures, documents pertinent information, records stress test information on charge sheets. (Demonstrated by monthly review of charts).
3) Performs all appropriate quality control tests on cameras, uptake probes, and all hotlab equipment to the specification provided by the radiation safety department, equipment manufacturers, NRC and the State, respectively.
4) Performs all hotlab duties such as aseptic radiopharmaceutical kit preparation according to the package insert, generator elution (assaying for Mo99 and aluminum breakthrough), receiving, logging, and shipping of materials according to the DOTs guidelines, monitoring, storing, and disposing of radioactive waste. Maintains a neat and safe environment.
5) Aseptically draws up and administers the correct radiopharmaceutical to the correct patient identified by two methods of identification following National Patient Safety Goals standards and ARRT/NMTCB Code of Ethics Standards. Proficient in all administration techniques such as straight venous and subcutaneous injections, intravenous catheter and urethral french catheter feeding tube insertions, as well as phlebotomy. Maintains ALARA principal at all times.
6) Statuses and charges patient studies as appropriate and in a timely manner. Takes a thorough and accurate patient history both prior to and during the examination to ensure the most accurate diagnosis by the interpreting radiologist.
7) Communicate effectively, respectfully, and timely to all patients and fellow healthcare providers. Explains nature of the exam completely and in laymen’s terms to the patients so as to allay apprehension and elicit cooperation. Validates patients understanding of procedure, e.g. asking the patient to repeat the instructions back to you, etc.
8) Works well as part of a team or independently (on call). Maintains a positive, professional, compassionate attitude towards patients and fellow healthcare providers
9) Functions as a preceptor/mentor for students, residents, and peers. Demonstrates enthusiasm and patience and provides honest constructive feedback. Actively seeks and is receptive to honest feedback from the healthcare team in a way to improve quality and performance.
10) Illustrates initiative, reliability, and flexibility while performing duties, and seeks educational resources for professional improvement. Maintains CEUs by ARRT, NMTCB, and/or State criteria. Attends and participates in in-service meetings and other designated training events that will enhance clinical skills. Reports to leadership team any suggestions for positive changes or recommendations on new procedures. Demonstrates a willingness to learn new procedures and accept new responsibilities.