Registered Radiology Assistant

Job description

We’ve learned that what is best for patients is also best for employees. Learn more about why we are one of the Best Companies to Work for in Texas®. The Registered Radiologist Assistant (R.R.A.)is an advanced practice radiologic technologist who performs advanced imaging procedures and provides patient assessment, education, and procedural assistance under the supervision of a licensed Radiologist in accordance with Texas Medical Board regulations, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Standards of Ethics, and organizational policies. The R.R.A. serves as an extension of the radiologist by improving patient care, procedural efficiency, and workflow while practicing within the approved scope of practice The R.R.A. does not independently interpret imaging studies, render diagnoses, or independently prescribe treatment. Reports to Director of Radiology Services along with Chief/Assistant Chief Radiologist Job Specific Responsibilities 1. Perform advanced radiologic procedures delegated by the supervising Radiologist, including fluoroscopic examinations, arthrography, image-guided procedures, drain studies, line evaluations, and other procedures permitted by Texas law and hospital policy. 2. Obtain and document focused patient histories, perform patient assessments, verify patient identification, confirm exam appropriateness, and evaluate patient readiness for procedures. 3. Explain imaging procedures to patients and families, provide pre- and post-procedure education, answer patient questions, and obtain informed consent when delegated and permitted by organizational policy. 4. Assist Radiologists during fluoroscopic, diagnostic, and interventional procedures by preparing sterile fields, positioning patients, administering contrast media as authorized, monitoring patient status, and documenting procedural information. 5. Function independently within delegated authority in the Emergency Department, Trauma Center, Operating Rooms, Intensive Care Units, inpatient units, outpatient imaging areas, and procedural suites. 6. Monitor patients before, during, and after procedures, recognize changes in patient condition, initiate appropriate emergency response measures, and promptly notify the supervising Radiologist or physician. 7. Maintain proficiency in the operation, quality control, and safe use of fluoroscopic and diagnostic imaging equipment while adhering to ALARA radiation safety principles. 8. Ensure proper room preparation, including equipment, sterile supplies, contrast media, procedure trays, and accessories necessary for diagnostic and image-guided procedures. 9. Document all patient care activities, procedural information, and clinical observations accurately within the electronic medical record and Radiology Information System (RIS/PACS). 10. Collaborate with Radiologists, nursing staff, technologists, residents, physicians, and ancillary departments to promote efficient patient throughput and high-quality patient care. 11. Participate in departmental quality improvement initiatives, protocol development, performance improvement activities, regulatory compliance, and patient safety programs. 12. Maintain inventory of procedural supplies and assist with equipment readiness and quality assurance activities. 13. Serve as a clinical resource and mentor for radiologic technologists, students, residents, and other healthcare professionals as appropriate. 14. Maintain continuing education requirements and professional competency necessary to retain ARRT Registered Radiologist Assistant certification and Texas licensure. 15. Perform all other duties as assigned within the Registered Radiologist Assistant scope of practice. Education and Experience • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. • Graduate of an accredited Registered Radiologist Assistant (R.R.A.) educational program. • Current certification as a Registered Radiologic Technologist [R.T.(R)] through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). • Minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience as a registered Radiologic Technologist prior to completion of an R.R.A. program. • Previous experience in fluoroscopy, trauma, surgery, interventional radiology, or a Level I Trauma Center preferred. Required Licensures/Certifications/Registrations • Current Texas Medical Board Medical Radiologic Technologist (MRT) License. • Current American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification in Radiography [R.T.(R)]. • Current American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Registered Radiologist Assistant [R.R.A.] credential. • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire. • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities • Strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills. • Advanced knowledge of fluoroscopic and diagnostic imaging procedures. • Knowledge of radiographic anatomy, pathology, and imaging protocols. • Ability to perform advanced patient assessments and monitor patient conditions before, during, and following procedures. • Thorough understanding of sterile technique, infection prevention, and radiation safety standards. • Ability to safely administer contrast media in accordance with organizational policies and delegated authority. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • Strong critical thinking and clinical decision-making abilities. • Ability to work effectively in high-volume, fast-paced trauma and acute care environments. • Proficient with Electronic Medical Records (EMR), PACS, and RIS applications. • Organized with exceptional attention to detail and ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities. Interaction with Other Departments and Other Relationships This position requires extensive interaction with Radiologists, Emergency Department personnel, Trauma Services, Surgery, Interventional Radiology, Nursing Services, Intensive Care Units, inpatient units, outpatient clinics, TTUHSC providers, referring physicians, ancillary departments, and healthcare professionals throughout the organization and surrounding referral network. Physical Capabilities Work requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, pushing, pulling, and transporting patients and equipment. Must be capable of assisting with patient transfers and lifting up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be physically and emotionally capable of functioning effectively in emergency, trauma, and high-acuity patient care environments while wearing lead protective equipment for extended periods. Environmental/Working Conditions position routinely works in diagnostic imaging, fluoroscopy, interventional radiology, emergency, trauma, operating room, inpatient, and outpatient environments. Frequent exposure to ionizing radiation, bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, bodily fluids, contrast media, sharps, and other hazards associated with healthcare settings. Requires adherence to radiation safety practices, infection prevention protocols, and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. Fast-paced environment with frequent emergent and high-pressure situations requiring rapid clinical decision-making. Direct Reports None. Cost Center 4310 UMC Health System provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. *Request for accommodations in the hire process should be directed to UMC Human Resources.​*