Band 5 - DEXA Assistant Practitioner, Rheumatology

Job overview

Are you a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) Scanning Technician?

We are recruiting for a part time (18.75 hours a week) tech to join us.

This role is to provide specialised technical support in Bone Densitometry, involving a broad range of highly complex specialised technical work.

The post holder will act as an operator for scanning under the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017.

The  service core hours run between 08:30-20:00 this  part-time post will support our evening clinics.

Please, get in touch, with any questions about the working patterns, or options for flexibility.

Main duties of the job

Perform Bone Density scan and procedures according to the relevant departmental protocols; this includes acquisition, analysis and presentation of Dexa images.

The software is specialised, including application software(e.g. Microsoft Office) and utility software (e.g. Radiology). Therefore, the post holder must be capable of learning to use this software. For example, spreadsheets in Excel, and proprietary software record updates like CRIS.

Provide an efficient patient focussed service and to ensure a close and good working relationship is developed with relevant team members and other hospital staff.

To obtain the optimum information from each individual patient investigation to facilitate speedy and accurate diagnosis of their clinical condition.

• To be actively involved in the continual development of all aspects of the Bone Densitometry Service in liaison with the Dexa Lead and the Assistant Divisional Manager.

To maintain high clinical standards, particularly regarding patient care, clinical risk and Health and Safety.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To always uphold the Trust values, always exhibiting professionalism and compassionate behaviour.

To ensure that the IR(ME) Regulations 2017 are understood and observed by the post holder and anyone they are responsible for, including other staff, patients and members of the public and to be aware of any updating of these regulations.

To undertake imaging examinations within DEXA department to the standard required by the Department of Radiology.

Appropriately assess and interview patients prior to scan, giving adequate explanation of scan procedure and ensuring correct preparation.

To be responsible at all times for the patient’s welfare and comfort.

To assess the validity of Bone Density requests and discuss unjustifiable with the referring clinician.

To assist in the setting-up and maintenance of quality assurance programmes and to participate in audit projects as directed.

To assist, where required, in the training of staff in the use of equipment in the DEXA Department.

To keep up to date with professional developments and to attend seminars and courses where required.

To assist in the supervision of junior staff and students and to provide help and advice if required.

Maintain an up-to-date record of CPD activities in line with the requirements of the HCPC.

To carry out monitoring procedures on equipment, reporting any faults to the Service Managers. To respond to and investigate any reports of malfunction of the apparatus, accessories, office equipment or computer system.

To maintain computer records in compliance with the Data Protection Act.

To check and maintain stock levels and to ensure work areas and equipment are kept clean and tidy and in good safe working order.

Liaise with other members of the multi-disciplinary team to ensure a high level of service is available to the patient and liaise closely with clerical staff.

Utilise all equipment associated with the Bone Density Unit in a safe and appropriate manner to maximise effect.