Vascular Technologist

Under the general direction of the Technical Director of the Vascular Laboratory, the Vascular Technologist operates ultrasonic equipment and performs diagnostic procedures such as carotid (extracranial), peripheral venous, abdominal visceral, transcranial (intracranial) or peripheral arterial ultrasounds, which require the application of ultrasonic technology; performs physiologic exam of the arterial and venous systems including plethysmography, the use of treadmill; maintains pertinent records and statistical data.

Performs technical and patient care duties within the vascular laboratory in a responsible, compassionate, and qualified manner. Is responsible for test results, preparation of data, preliminary report writing and transmission of data to 360 Powerscribe software and ultimately Visage, and EPIC. In addition, in concordance with lab policies, will report critical findings, urgent and emergent results to appropriate health care personnel. Performs all functions to assist the patients of the Vascular Laboratory and ensures quality control for the work performed.

Serves as a resource for medical and nursing staff who are seeking diagnostic studies in the Vascular Diagnostic Lab. Initiates patient testing by consulting with these staff members via telephone and evaluating the urgency of studies that are requested daily. Collaborates with the Technical Director to resolve any difficulties in the process of ordering vascular lab studies.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Obtains brief oral patient history, physical examination, and reasons for the testing to be performed, records these data, and determines the appropriate testing to be performed. Reviews patient history and other supporting clinical data to facilitate optimum diagnostic results.

Explains procedures to patients to ensure cooperation and optimum test results, positions patient. Explains testing modalities to families and other health team members as appropriate.

Conducts scanning procedures using ultrasound equipment over specified body area; ensures digital images obtained and sent to EPIC/Visage per IAC (Intersocietal Accreditation Commission) protocol and Laboratory policies and procedures. In conjunction with the Technical Director when needed, ensures appropriate indications are present for the testing procedures ordered. Maintains optimal quality assurance in all aspects of patient care testing and works in association with the Technical and Medical Directors to provide optimal test accuracy.

Selects and adjusts appropriate transducer to optimize visualization, depending on depth of field, vessels to be identified, etc.

Follows the protocol for each test procedure. Performs arterial, venous, carotid, abdominal visceral and transcranial tests according to Laboratory protocols; ensures safety and care of patients undergoing testing.

Performs portable testing and brings portable ultrasound unit/physiologic to in-patient floors.

Performs Intra Operative testing as instructed.

Records patient test data, compiles and assembles data, writes preliminary reports and provides this information to the physician / EPIC/Visage, and Powerscribe in a timely fashion.

Works with the Technical Director to maintain equipment. Participates in routine care, maintenance, and calibration of Lab equipment. Participates in the collection and monitoring of equipment maintenance.

Possesses a global awareness of the daily schedule both for the individual as well as the entire staff and works to resolve inefficiencies and discrepancies. Assists in the rescheduling of testing, if necessary, when technical problems preclude adequate performance of test.

Performs new techniques and/or routines as necessitated by technological advances/changes or laboratory focus.

Maintains a clean work area (i.e., clean counters, cabinets, machines, etc.)

Implements precaution techniques, sterile techniques, etc. as needed.

When assigned, triages Laboratory testing schedule to ensure availability and placement of technical staff with patients. Makes sure all exam exams are distributed evenly and fairly. Collaborates with Technical Director to resolve discrepancies.

Prepares Laboratory exam rooms at the close of business for use by the Sleep Lab, to include relocation of equipment and supplies.

Participates in the preparation for the accreditation process under the direction of the Technical Director.

Understands and executes all changes in operations, potential solutions to new problems and other operational processes encountered.

Participates in on-the-job training for staff, students, residents, and fellows as assigned.

Participates in continuous quality improvement programs.

Participates in any function deemed necessary for the smooth function of the laboratory. This includes, but is not limited to, filing, answering the telephone, covering the secretaries, photocopying, providing transport of patients, moving of equipment and stocking of supplies.

Maintains and shares clinical knowledge and skills using current vascular technology and health-care practices as well as continuing educational programs and appropriate learning experiences. Adheres to requirements for mandatory continuing education and certification. Obtains instruction as necessary when implementing vascular technology.

Minimum of college undergraduate degree or related experience and has completed an accredited ultrasound program or equivalent.

Must have related diagnostic ultrasound experience, either from past employment or training program.

Must be certified by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers as a Registered Vascular Technologist, Cardiovascular Credentialing International or Registered Vascular Sonographer. For new graduates, must obtain this credential within one year of employment.

Possess AHA, BLS Certification

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of vascular anatomy, cross-sectional anatomy and physiology and medical terminology.
• Knowledge of principles of ultrasound physics, multiple vascular technologies, ultrasound imaging and equipment.
• Knowledge of physiologic testing equipment.
• Ability to assess medical history of patient, as well as patient concerns, and to determine any limitations/contraindications to testing.
• Based on examinations findings, the ability to recognize, identify, interpret and document normal and abnormal anatomic structures, physiology, pathology, and pathophysiology.
• Makes every effort to answer the clinical question asked, rather than just documenting number and pictures on digital images
• Ability to recognize emergency situations and respond appropriately. Knowledge of locations of emergency equipment and procedures.
• Knowledge of and practice of proper body mechanics.
• Knowledge of universal precautions.
• Must demonstrate appropriate knowledge of the principles of growth and development of patients of all age groups. Must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit. Ability to provide compassionate care to patients.
• Effective interpersonal and communications skills, including able to read and write English. Ability to question effectively to obtain pertinent medical information.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to lift over 5 lbs.
• Is knowledgeable and compliant in all hospital, State and Federal regulatory requirements, including hospital policy and procedures (where applicable to the performance of the job), Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
• Satisfactorily meets work performance expectations set forth by the lab’s leadership.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Vascular Laboratory is a diagnostic suite within the hospital, providing peripheral vascular testing to both in-patients and outpatients. Portable examinations are performed at the bedside in patient care units, ICUs and could be performed in the operating room, as indicated. The laboratory is set up with a support group office, a workspace for the technologists with shared desk space, and seven exam rooms, a patient waiting room and stretcher room. Exposure to cleaning agents used on equipment can be encountered. Must walk, stand, and sit for periods of time as well as assist patients and move equipment and supplies.

Work on other off-site locations may be required such as, but not limited to the Vein Care in Stoneham and MGH Vascular center west in Waltham.

On-Call and Holiday schedule as scheduled.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:

Prudent use of hospital resources.

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.