Computed Tomography Technologist

Under indirect supervision, provides patient services using imaging modalities. Performs a variety of Computed Tomography procedures on patients of all age categories. Evaluates images for technical quality. Exercises professional attitude and judgment in the performance of duties. Provides patient care essential to Computed Tomography procedures. Recognizes patient conditions requiring immediate action and initiates life support measures.

• Upholds Kaiser Permanente's Policies and Procedures, Principles of Responsibilities, and applicable state, federal, and local laws.
• Is responsive to the needs of others by maintaining a professional behavior toward members and coworkers.
• Identifies the impact of cultural diversity and lifestyle choices on patient condition and makes accommodations for such differences.
• Demonstrates an understanding of the cognitive, physical, emotional, and chronological maturation process in delivery of services to patients of the age group served.
• Exercises clinical judgment that conforms to established standards.
• Documents clinical activities in a timely, comprehensive, and accurate manner.
• Observes all organizational, regional, medical service area, and Diagnostic Imaging department policies and procedures.
• Maintains standards of professional behavior established to enhance quality of service. Utilizes effective communication skills.
• Demonstrates professional behavior/conduct in all interactions with patients and staff.
• Meets productivity norms achieved by peers within the department. Maintains equipment, supplies, and work area in accordance with department guidelines.
• Essential Clinical Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Explains procedure to the patient, verifies patient history, and confirms appropriateness of ordered exam/procedure.
  • Selects appropriate software for the exam, utilizing a variety of software programs, based on imaging principles, area of interest to be demonstrated, and patient conditions, enters data such as type of scan requested, slice thickness, scan time, and other technical factors into computer.
  • Positions and immobilizes patient in order to obtain diagnostic image(s) of area of interest; may administer contrast media orally or assist radiologist in intravenous administration.
  • Recognizes adverse reactions or changes in patient condition and reacts appropriately. Observes all standards for radiation safety/protection in order to minimize dose.
  • Utilizes scanning techniques, selects best plane, acquisition method (e.g., spiral, dynamic, multi-row detector), parameters (e.g., slice thickness, mA, time, algorithm, pitch) to best demonstrate anatomy and pathology in studies such as those performed for the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and musculoskeletal.
  • Modifies protocols as indicated by presence of pathology or trauma.
  • May perform special procedures such as but not limited to 3-D studies, biopsies, drainage, and aspiration, post myelography, CT arthrography, CT angiography, cardiac gating, and interventional CT.
  • Evaluates images on video display screen for diagnostic quality and presence of artifacts; evaluates videotapes and computer-generated information for technical quality; takes corrective action as indicated to ensure image quality.
  • Photographs/films images/scans utilizing appropriate window/level settings and formats; archives images and data.

• Experience:
  • One-year experience as a CT technologist within the past 2 years or 2 years experience as a staff technologist with successful completion of the department CT training program.
  • Per the National Agreement, current KP Coalition employees have this experience requirement waived.

• Radiologic Technologist Certificate (California) OR Certified Radiologic Technologist - Diagnostic Radiologic Technology Certificate (California)
  • Basic Life Support within 4 months of hire
    • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Certificate - Computed Tomography from American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
      • Radiologic Technologist Certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
  Additional Requirements:
  • N/A
  Preferred Qualifications:
  • Two years clinical experience as a Computed Tomography Technologist, preferably in an acute care medical center. Experience with GE CT scanners. Additional training in the use and practices of Computed Tomography. Certificate of advanced qualification: ARRT-CT. Experience with 3D post-processing. Experience with PACS.

Notes:

• Shifts, hours, and/or locations may vary based on operational need.