Diagnostic Imaging Technologist-Mammography I

Job Summary

Under general supervision, operates dedicated and specialized mammography radiographic equipment; formulates/calculates techniques and positions patients to produce diagnostic images of normal and abnormal human breast and associated tissue and related unusual changes for the use by physicians in making medical diagnoses. Within established/recognized scope of practice, uses independent judgment in critiquing radiographs and images, recognizing normal from abnormal tissue and taking additional required views such as magnification.

Essential Responsibilities

• Upholds Kaiser Permanentes Policies and Procedures, Principles of Responsibilities and applicable state, federal and local laws. Operates dedicated and complex mammography equipment in a patient care setting for the purpose of obtaining definitive diagnosis for positive findings on a mammogram. Selects correct technical factors relative to the requirements of the study and the patients age, body habitus and pathology. Consistently processes radiographic images properly, utilizing automated equipment. Critiques image and makes necessary adjustments in technical factors, patient positioning, etc. Demonstrates knowledge of, and consistently uses, proper sterile techniques, and/or proper infection control technique. Conducts a patient interview to attain full understanding of procedure and ultimately obtaining consent of the patient.
• Assists with orientation and training of students and other Radiologic Technologists in all aspects of positioning, compression, exposure factors, film processing and quality assurance/control.
• Positions patients for mammography images. Accurately position patients including those with implants, taking into consideration body habitus and location of lesion. Utilizes and selects precise positioning techniques involved with additional/special views such as magnification, compression relative to the patients condition or findings seen on images.
• Maintains a comprehensive knowledge of, and ability to perform required mammography Q.C. for mammography according to the requirements of the State of California and Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) Utilizes mammography equipment appropriately to perform Q.C. Functions.
• Observes Regional and department safety policies.
• Considers the cognitive, physical, emotional and chronological maturation process in delivery of services to patients of the age group served. Assesses data reflective of the patients status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patients requirements relative to his or her age-specific needs and provides the care needed in accordance with department policy. Adjusts technical factors relative to the requirements of the study. Modifies patient positioning techniques relative to the patients physical and cognitive abilities with special consideration to the nature of the procedure and the patients ability and willingness to cooperate under the tense circumstances. To the extent possible, positions patients in such a way as to avoid as much discomfort as possible. Stays in continual contact with any disoriented or confused patient.
• Exercises clinical judgment within the scope of practice. Consults with the radiologist or other clinician for purposes of clarifying orders and questionable images/structure. Selects alternate or additional views appropriately relative to the patients condition or findings seen on the images. Produces high quality diagnostic images that (1) are free from artifacts or blurred images caused by motion.; (2) demonstrate the area(s) of interest (3) exhibit the optimum contrast/exposure needed to differentiate various types of normal and abnormal tissue (e.g., mammary, muscle, fat, lymph).
• Documents clinical activities in a timely, comprehensive and accurate manner and maintains documentation as required by ACR, MQSA, State of California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
• Completes and signs the standard consultation form and/or the processing of imaging records accurately and immediately following each procedure.
• Accurately documents all pertinent information regarding mammography and clinical breast examinations.
• May be required to perform routine radiographic examinations as needed.
• May perform other duties as required.