CNIM Intraoperative Neurophysiologist

Summary

The neurophysiologist performs testing and monitoring of the nervous system during surgery to assist the surgeons in avoiding or reducing complications by detecting incipient injury in time to prevent or ameliorate it.

• Explain procedure to patient and family members so that it is clear and understandable.
• Measure and accurately apply recording electrodes in a timely manner.
• Calibrate, evaluate, and adjust equipment, optimizing recording and stimulation parameters to acquire accurate data and information.
• Implement appropriate troubleshooting methods to assure accurate recording of information.
• Keep equipment clean and in proper working order, reporting technical malfunctions to supervisor.
• Interact with surgical team and surgeons to provide interpretive data regarding patients’ neurological status.
• Recognize normal patterns, normal variants and abnormal patterns; understand the medical and pharmacological/anesthetic conditions that influence all recording IOM modalities.
• Accurately document significant events and stages of surgery in a timely manner.
• Complete all IOM logs, files, and sheets with emphasis on the clinical observations in order to assist the neurologists and/or designated MD with the final interpretation.
• Assist in the training of new IOM technologists.
• Attend courses and seminars for continuing education.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor.

• CNIM certified.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher.
• Must have current BLS certification.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time, while concentrating on monitoring computer screen images.
• Ability to stand, turn and stoop among several types of equipment in an operating room suite.
• Interpersonal communication skills necessary to interact with medical staff, patients, and other hospital employees.