Mammography Technologist- PT AM

Major Responsibilities:
Understand the operation, technique factors, and function of the mammographic systems in department.

• Operates all mammographic equipment and can select and modify technical factors as needed.
• Set equipment for every exam in fashion to optimize image quality with lowest possible dose.
• Checks all equipment on a daily basis, inspects for physical hazards in mammographic rooms, darkroom areas, and reports to the coordinator any malfunctions or hazards.
• Must be able to do job related problem solving such as malfunction of equipment, alternate patient positioning and views, realizing equipment or patient limitations. Operate all equipment in a consistent and professional manner, with appropriate respect for patient dose and image quality (demonstrated by adequate collimation/shielding and low repeat rate).
• Is familiar with and understands the common projections in a routine mammographic examination.
• Must be skilled in the selection and adjustment of technical controls and factors governing the filming of patients, or the operation of equipment.
• Must have experienced background in the use and operation of mammographic equipment.
• Must have knowledge in the principals of physics, anatomy, medical terminology, and radiation protection as set forth by the State and physicist.
• Controls the positioning and transferring of patients undergoing mammographic examinations, and supervises their welfare and care, as well as the use of radiation protection devices and/or immobilization devices on all patients under our care and supervision.
• Required to adhere to the guidelines set forth by the State and physicist regarding radiation protection.
• Prepare/position patient for exam; collimate/shield as advisable.
• Must be skilled in the use, handling, and care of equipment, cassettes, film and other supplies. Provides protection to patients in accordance with prescribed radiation safety standards.
• Able to perform specialized techniques using magnification and compression equipment when such views are necessary. Check films with the radiologists as needed. Consistently produce high quality mammography.
• Able to perform specific tasks as documented in skills task list. Can perform start up and shut down of processor, i.e., water adjustment, remove and clean crossovers. Can identify artifacts on film; know method needed to correct problem. Perform procedure setup/support/clean-up/patient care functions to permit the smooth performance of all radiographic studies.
• Adhere to patient schedule on a timely basis.
• Bring patient to dressing room, and give instruction.
• Must be able to explain, instruct, and communicate the nature of the mammographic procedure to patients to ensure proper cooperation.
• Provide for patient comfort by: 1. familiarize patient with equipment
  2. familiarize patient with procedure aspect of exam
  3. respond to patient’s questions accurately and gently 4. use a gentle tone of voice when communicating
  5. provide support to the anxious and fearful patient
  6. maintain patient modesty during the exam
  7. maintain the patient’s confidentiality by speaking with patient in private exam room
• Maintain order and cleanliness within the Mammography suites; is responsible for the condition of mammography rooms after use and that adequate supplies are available; replace deficiency of supplies by ordering from storeroom, outside vendors, ACS; check to be sure that imaging and supplies are present prior to bringing patient to procedure area.
• Obtain consent indicating that patient is not pregnant as needed.
• Document the status of previous films and advise the patient of the benefits and necessity of obtaining previous films.
• Perform and have radiologist approve preliminary films, if needed for specialized exams.
• Reassurance/supportive care of patient pre-, intra-, post-procedure care for processing films.
• Can perform skin calcification views when directed by radiologist. Can perform post-mastectomy views when directed by radiologist. Obtain accurate patient history. Mark lump, moles, other skin lesions with B.B. and then label drawing correctly. Able to identify need for additional views if history warrants. Instruct…