RADIOGRAPHER

Overview

The Inpatient Radiographer provides high-quality imaging services within a hospital setting, demonstrates excellent customer service performance in that his/her attitude and actions are at all times consistent with the standards contained in the Vision, Mission and Values of Covenant HealthCare and the commitment to Extraordinary Care for Every Generation. This individual, under supervision, performs radiological examinations for the interpretation of a Radiologist; maintains patient files for future reference. The Inpatient Radiographer has clinical contact with patients in all age groups (neonatal, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric) and is able to appropriately assess, care for and treat them according to the age-appropriate care guidelines as defined by Covenant HealthCare.

Responsibilities

Models Covenants Mission, Vision and WE CARE Values of Extraordinary Care for Every Generation.

Has clinical contact with patients in all age groups (neonatal, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric) and is able to appropriately assess, care for and treat them according to the age-appropriate care guidelines as defined by Covenant HealthCare.

The main responsibilities for this position are:

Produces and evaluates diagnostically acceptable radiographs following department protocols.

Conduct imaging procedures by operating a wide range of imaging equipment including General Diagnostic X-Ray Units, Tomography Units, Fluoroscopy Units, Portable X-ray Units, C-Arm Units, Dental X-ray Units, O-Arm Units and Specimen X-ray Units

Performing imaging procedures across several settings within the hospital including the Diagnostic Imaging Department, Surgical Services Department, Emergency Care Center, Intensive and Critical Care Units, Nursing Units and Rehabilitation Unit

Positions patients according to the type of examination required, and provides and applies immobilization devices as required Obtains and documents, per protocol, pertinent clinical history

Explains procedures to patients

Injects patients with contrast media under the direction of a Radiologist to allow imaging of specific organs or anatomical structures; monitors and records patient reactions to injections and responds to adverse reactions, following emergency procedures as necessary Transports patients via wheelchair or stretcher; lifts, moves and assists in transferring patients, utilizing proper body mechanics during diagnostic procedures

Uses proper technique in handling and transporting IVs, IVACs, oxygen, catheters and other patient equipment Moves and operates portable x-ray, fluoro and other imaging equipment, observing department protocol Maintains radiographic equipment in efficient operation condition.

Maintains cleanliness and order in work area; obtains supplies and equipment as needed Answers phone, records daily schedule and performs other routine clerical duties as needed

Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Requirements

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Currently registered or is registry eligible by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Related experience

BLS Certified

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Patient handling and safety

Teamwork with nurses and physicians

Quick decision-making in emergent situations

Infection control and PPE usage

Strong communication, especially with non-verbal or confused patients

Well versed in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology.

Documented evidence of education based on observation, hands-on experience. Superb interpersonal skills in relationship with patients, families and co-workers.

WORKING CONDITIONS

A radiographer working as an Inpatient Radiographer should be prepared to encounter a wide variety of patients with diverse and often complex medical conditions. Heres a breakdown of the typical types of patients they might see:

Post-Surgical Patients

Needs: Postoperative imaging to check for complications (e.g., bleeding, fluid collection, proper placement of hardware or drains).

Challenges: Limited mobility, pain management, sterile precautions.

Critically Ill Patients (ICU)

Needs: Frequent portable X-rays (e.g., chest X-rays to assess lines/tubes, pneumonia, or ARDS).

Challenges: Ventilators, multiple lines/tubes, fragile condition, bedside imaging.

Trauma Patients

Needs: Stat imaging (X-ray, CT) to assess fractures, internal bleeding, head or spinal injuries.

Challenges: May be unresponsive, combative, or require spinal precautions (logrolling, backboard use).

Neurological Patients

Needs: Brain CTs, spine MRIs for stroke, seizures, tumors, or neurodegenerative conditions.

Challenges: May have cognitive impairment or be unable to follow instructions.

Infectious Disease Patients

Needs: Imaging to assess complications of infections (e.g., pneumonia, abscesses, osteomyelitis).

Challenges: Isolation precautions (contact, droplet, airborne), PPE compliance.

Oncology Patients

Needs: Imaging for diagnosis, staging, or monitoring treatment of cancer.

Challenges: Immunosuppression, fragility, sensitivity to radiation.

Elderly and Geriatric Patients

Needs: Imaging for falls, fractures, degenerative joint disease.

Challenges: Osteoporosis, cognitive impairment (e.g., dementia), limited mobility.

Patients with Limited Mobility or Disabilities

Needs: Special positioning and care to obtain quality images without causing harm or discomfort.

Challenges: May require lift equipment, modified techniques, or extra assistance.

Psychiatric Patients

Needs: Imaging to rule out physical causes of symptoms (e.g., head trauma, ingestion of foreign objects).

Challenges: Agitation, non-compliance, need for safety precautions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to maintain punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards. Constant lifting up to 10 lbs.

Constant standing, walking.

Frequent lifting up to 50 lbs.

Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, stooping, crouching. Frequent squatting, twisting, reaching, handling, feeling, talking. Frequent hearing, near vision, midrange vision, far vision.

Frequent depth perception, visual accommodation, color vision. Frequent field of vision.

Occasional lifting up to 100 lbs. or more.

Occasional sitting, reclining, climbing, balancing, kneeling. Occasional crawling.

Position Level: PHYSICAL LEVEL IV