GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT: Under General Supervision, technologist performs MRI/MRA/MRS/fMRI studies following established procedures and protocols within the MR unit to acquire images for use by physicians in treatment and diagnosis of pathologies in clinical and research environment. Performs research scans as outlined by study protocol. Works closely with research study group to ensure success as outlined in study design.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSBILITIES: Assists patients and research participants in understanding MR procedures, taking into consideration physical and emotional needs.

• Oversees safety of patients, visitors, family and staff in the immediate work area.
• Maintains ethical standards, patient confidentiality, and professional conduct.
• Greets patients and research participants with courtesy, introduces self, confirms correct patient and exam, etc.
• Delivers patient care under scope of license and training.
• Screens patients and research participants for metallic foreign bodies and contraindications for a safe MRI scan using department screening forms, MRI safety manual and other resources available.
• Ensures adherence to MRI safety practices by all patients, research participants, personnel and visitors entering Technologist staffed MRI areas.
• Performs Quality Assurance testing on 3T & 4T scanners, for 4T trained staff. Reports problems to Chief Technologist and MR service personnel and/or Facilities personnel, as appropriate.
• Performs venipuncture for blood draws, inserts IV catheter for use before, during, after or independent of an MRI scan, to be used for infusion or blood draw.
• Screens patients for history of allergy to Gadolinium-based Contrast Media (GBCM) or contraindications with renal function based in the current guidelines outlined by the American College of Radiology and MGB.
• Administers GBCM in both research and clinical studies.
• Operates the MR control consoles for each examination utilizing proper techniques and protocols.
• Transfers, positions and instructs patients and research participants regarding scan procedures to obtain diagnostic/research study specified by the physician or department approved research study.

Understands and performs all aspects of MR examinations including all clinical studies, as well as investigational functional studies including, but not limited to:

• Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent (BOLD) fMRI
• Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast (DSC MRI) imaging
• T2 mapping
• Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS)
• Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)
• Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL)
• Cerebral Blood Volume (CBV)
• Phosphorous MRS (4T & 9.4T trained Technologist only)
• Lithium MRS & Fluorine MRS (4T trained Technologist only)
• Assist in developing and testing new protocols at all clinical scanners for clinical and research protocols, where appropriately trained.
• Performs studies on Siemens 3T Prisma scanners. Some Technologists also trained on 4T and 9.4T scanners, both Varian/Agilent Systems products and are assigned on rotation to these scanners.
• Makes adjustments in consult with research study group or radiologist, as needed. Quality and completion checks.
• Archives image/scan data from scanner console to PACS, designated server, or other device for current technology, as appropriate for system, data type and study, ensuring use of encrypted portable devices.
• Submits relevant information to radiologist for interpretation.
• Produces and uploads copies of scans securely to and from CD at patient or referring physician request.
• Notifies appropriate personnel of equipment and facility malfunctions to obtain repair/replacement, as needed.
• Keeps scan rooms and associated exam rooms well stocked with supplies to ensure uninterrupted care.
• Informs appropriate personnel when supplies are needed.
• Occasionally assists with scheduling MR exams for both clinical and research studies on MR systems after thorough review of safety information for each patient and participant.
• Properly documents all implants and other potential safety issues in patient chart. Documents communication with the patient/participant and other health care providers. Obtains approval from Clinical Director for scanning when implants are in place for research subjects and patients after researching safety information.
• Scans associated paperwork (OP notes, implant approval form, etc.) to EPIC chart when completed, or to appropriate files when follow up required.
• Contacts radiologist, when urgent interpretation is requested or when potential findings are observed during a scan, in a timely manner.
• Wipes down patient/research participant scan and exam room areas with MGB approved cleaning agent between each scan and after exposure to body fluids, known contagions or open wounds.
• Maintains a neat and clean work environment, including scan control rooms, exam rooms and some common areas of the Imaging Center.
• Maintains continuing education credentials with ARRT. Remains up to date on imaging trends, techniques, procedures and equipment.
• Remains up to date on department protocol changes and additions.
• Uses independent judgment, ingenuity and initiative throughout a variety of situations.
• Performs other job-related duties and special projects as requested by Lead and Chief Technologists, Clinical Director and Research Directors.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Mixed clinical and research environment with greater percentage of time on research scanning. Technologists aer exposed to large magnetic fields, radio frequency and noise, possible exposure to patient/ research participant body fluids or carriers of contagious infections. Must be able to work independently. Subject to stressful situations. Failure to follow established procedures and safety practices could result in damage to equipment, personnel (including self) or patient injury or death.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITY: Oversee MR safety for all non-technical personnel in immediate environment.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY: Initiate billing process to either grant account or patient insurance with proper exam completion.

Graduate of ARRT approved Radiology and/or MR training program. ARRT, ARMRIT or CAMRT certification required. Successful completion of MR Registry exam, or MR Registry eligible required.

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED: CPR Certified, Competency in venipuncture for blood draw and infusion.

McLean is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.