The MRI technologists, or magnetic resonance imaging technologists, are medical personnel who operate magnetic resonance imaging scanners for the purposes of creating diagnostic images. These images are then communicated to the doctor in need for diagnostic purposes. The MRI Technologist must continuously be familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures.

JOB SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Prepares facilities in accordance with procedural requirements; calibrates and adjusts equipment.
Prepares contrasts and materials.
Responsible for screening of patients to be imaged for contraindications that may be hazardous to their health or to the safety of others. Assists radiologists by evaluating patients and obtaining written screening for administration of contrast media. Starts IVs and injects contrast material for imaging studies. Observes patient for allergic reaction after administration of contrast.
Cleans and disinfects equipment in accordance with sterile procedures and standards.
Determines appropriate methodology and techniques to use; arranges immobilization and/or support devices for proper patient positioning; adjusts shields; selects appropriate imaging device.
Obtains patient history, explains procedures to patient, addresses patients' concerns, and follows established pre-screening policy and procedure.
Prepares patient for MRI studies or radiographic procedures, positions patient as appropriate for prescribed procedure, and assists patients at completion of procedure.
Follows prescribed procedure in the administration of MRI study or radiography.
Monitors the patient's physical condition during the course of the procedure; report patient change of status or emergency situations to physician, clinical staff, or supervisor.
Practices radiation protection techniques to minimize radiation exposure to patient and staff.
Competent in administrative functions of Electronic Medical Records
Exposes and develops film or prepares hard copies from images; transfer images to magnetic tape for storage.
Evaluate MRI scans for technical quality and appropriately label.
Maintain accurate patient documentation, including computerized documentation.
Performs general office duties: maintains stock supplies, assists administrators in determining quantities for purchase, records procedure codes for billing purposes, and scheduling patients.
Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
Troubleshoot equipment and document errors or equipment malfunctions; escalate issues and concerns to supervisor.
Responsible for performing tasks that are within the scope of his/her educational preparation, knowledge, and permitted by the policies and procedures of CARTI Imaging Department, and other local, state, and federal guidelines; and the policies of the facility requesting the services.
Actively participate in CARTI research projects as requested.

OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS: Travel will be required to cover census needs at all locations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: None

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, LICENSURE and REGISTRATION:

Graduate of accredited school or military program
Current ARRT (R) certification for Radiography OR Current ARRT (MR) certification OR ARRT (R )/ (MR)
If ARRT (R ) certified, must have valid Radiologic Technology License from State of Arkansas
BLS required

EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

One year of full time experience within the last three years in a comparable job classification
Skilled in using computer network system competently to process patient and department information
Skilled in injecting contrast agents for imaging procedures
Skilled in assuming responsibility for safety factors
Ability to explain procedures clearly and simply to patients
Knowledge of medical terminology
Knowledge of grammar, spelling and punctuation to type from draft copy and to review/edit reports/ correspondence

REASONING ABILITY:

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or schedule form.

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS:

Must interact and communicate both verbally and in written form.
Must interact and exchange information regarding patients with physicians and other departmental personnel, and outside agencies on a frequent basis while respecting the confidentiality of patient information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
The employee regularly is required to stand, walk, sit, use hand to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
This position involves potential exposure to infectious diseases. Colleagues are offered appropriate vaccinations and safety training.

COMMENTS:
This description is intended to describe the essential job functions, the general supplemental functions and the essential requirements for the performance of the job. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and requirements of a person so classified. Other functions may be assigned and management retains the right to add or change the duties at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

This position is a Safety Sensitive Position. The essential functions, physical demands, and mental competencies of this job require the employee maintain the ability to work in a constant state of alertness in a safe manner.