Mammography Technologist - Per Diem

The Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA), located in Seattle, Washington, is part of a dynamic collaboration among three organizations known nationally and internationally for their patient care and research: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington, and Seattle Children's. Over the past 25 years, these institutions have worked together to support their mission of adult and pediatric oncology patient care services, research and education.

The Mammography Technologist performs screening and diagnostic mammographic procedures on a per diem basis across all clinical sites, including mobile mammography van, in accordance with the American College of Radiology (ACR) guidelines at a technical level not requiring constant supervision; uses independent judgment to accomplish the efficient completion of prescribed procedures utilizing good patient care and proper radiation protection standards; assures correct film and file documentation; records information related to exams into department computer.

• Performs mammographic procedures across all clinical sites, including the mobile mammography van, according to ACR standards and department procedure manual utilizing correct and adequate anatomic positioning skills; selects correct technical factors that consistently produce high quality mammogram images while considering patient variation and minimizing radiation; demonstrates proficient use of mammographic equipment; applies immobilization devices and/or shielding as required.
• Performs all mammographic procedures, including ductograms, wire localizations, and stereotactic biopsies, after appropriate orientation and training.
• Confirms patient identification by verbal confirmation; checks physician order for correct examination and special instructions; consults with radiologist and/or physician when necessary; documents appropriate clinical history; maintains strict patient confidentiality during all interactions between patients and/or physicians.
• Reviews images for proper positioning, technique, identification and records required data.
• Performs daily safety, warm-up, and quality control checks for radiographic equipment and film processor, records results into the appropriate log (paper or computer) according to ACR standards.
• Complies with all ACR / MQSA accreditation standards.
• Works in collaboration with the film library and other mammography facilities to ensure that the most recent exam is available for comparison; ensures that all "outside" films are received and compared to the current study.
• Maintains statistics of all abnormal tissue interpretation and needle localization procedures with pathology results; documents findings.
• Ensures that all images are sent daily to radiologist workstation for interpretation.
• Ensures compliance with all regulatory agencies (including but limited to, JCAHO, ACR, HCFA, FDA, or State); maintains up-to-date records of all requirements available for inspection; responds to accreditation renewals in a timely manner.
• Participates and ensure compliance with all research protocols; ensures appropriate documentation.
• Performs visual preventative maintenance checks, records and reports results to appropriate personnel; identifies problems and communicate to immediate supervisor; takes appropriate corrective action when necessary; offers solutions as appropriate.
• Understands the hospital billing procedures; completes all paper work; demonstrates the ability to utilize the radiology and/or hospital information systems efficiently; performs billing functions; files and retrieves files and all department reports according to policy; performs clerical functions as required.
• Retrieves and calls reports to physicians or their offices upon request.
• Maintains professional acumen in all facets of the subsection supervised; expands job-related knowledge and skills to improve performance; participates in professional organizations as required.
• Utilizes clinical and department communications, telephone, and paging systems appropriately.
• Recognizes emergency situations, initiates code procedures, administers first aid/CPR as needed.
• Practices appropriate infection control procedures to prevent cross-contamination to patients and instruments.
• Attends regularly scheduled department and supervisory meetings and in-service training; participates in PI activities.
• Adheres to all general, magnet and radiation safety department policies; recognizes safety hazards to staff and/or patients, reports and takes appropriate action immediately in order to maintain a safe working environment including proper body mechanics.
• Instructs radiology students and new staff according to clinical and department requirements; assists in the orientation of department and hospital personnel with emphasis on radiation safety.
• Demonstrates the ability to perform routine mammogram exams in an efficient manner by completing the scheduled exams within their scheduled time and being able to accommodate add-on exams with a minimal interruption of normal patient flow; coordinates and performs examination scheduling; organizes, plans, and directs activities relating to patients and procedures for designated area; coordinates with other areas.
• Greets and introduces self to patient; describes nature and time requirements of requested examinations to patient; participates in the teaching of patients, family, and staff as required; demonstrates knowledge of breast self-examination techniques.
• Restocks supplies and maintains adequate inventory; demonstrates a cost-effective use of supplies and materials.

All radiologic technologists performing mammography must meet the MQSA-required qualifications in the table below. The ACR also recommends that technologists performing mammography hold the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) post-primary certification in mammography.