Neurodiagnostic Technician I

The Neurodiagnostic Technician I is an entry level position in the Neurodiagnostic Testing department. Essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, performing diagnostic testing of inpatient and outpatient Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS), Electroencephalography (EEG), and Evoked Potential (EP) procedures according to ASET, ABRET, AAET standards and facility policy and procedures. Communication skills are essential for this position. May be asked to rotate to other Neurodiagnostic Testing department locations within the Health System to cover fluctuations in patient volume. All technologists participate in departmental on call schedule.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE

ARBRET- Am Bd Reg of Electroneurodiagn

Equivalent Experience: AEET registry eligible in EEG, EP or NCS prior to hire

BLS- Basic Life Support

Equivalent Experience: Obtain within 1 month of hire or transfer

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Education: High School Diploma or GED

Comments: Associates degree or higher, or Graduate of a CAAHEP accredited NDT program, or Certificate of completion from ABRET recognized NDT formal training program.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• This position performs non-invasive studies of the sensory and motor peripheral nerves (Nerve Conduction Studies) under indirect supervision of a physician in an outpatient and inpatient setting. Produces quality Nerve Conduction Studies in a highly skilled, patient-appropriate manner required in part for diagnosis and treatment. Provides assistance to the testing physician as needed with patient care and utilization of equipment while in the exam room.
• Performs non-invasive EEG and EP studies under indirect supervision of a senior technologist in an outpatient and inpatient setting. Must have knowledge base to interact with patients and obtain a quality, interpretable recording that will yield information about the patient's neuronal activity. Must possess the appropriate knowledge level of diseases to correlate patient history and clinical symptoms to determine appropriate maneuvers to be performed during studies. Is able to monitor and record additional physiological parameters by means of appropriate techniques and instrumentation. Provides appropriate patient care and documents detailed observations of clinical manifestations during the recording and reports findings or concerns to senior technologist and/or reading physician for prompt interpretation when needed.
• Provides education and communication regarding preparation and purpose of studies and answers patient/provider questions. Ability to work with patients who may be anxious, uncooperative or physically challenged a must.
• Follows departmental protocol and institution guidelines for gathering medical history of the patient, prepares exam room and maintains equipment for proper operating order. Maintains proper documentation of test results and ensures copies are available in the patient's Electronic Medical Record

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintains professional acumen through active association with professional organizations. Shows evidence of continuing education in the areas of NCS, EEG, and EP as necessary to remain current with profession.
• Uses cognitive neurophysiologic skills to identify, record, and adapt procedures as appropriate to anatomical, pathological, diagnostic information and images.
• Review Neurodiagnostic Testing procedure information in relation to current and past patient medical history and communicate findings as needed to the senior technologist or reading physician.
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of pharmacological effects of medications on NCS, EEG, EP, and EMG findings.
• Learns to use appropriate problem solving steps and adapts methods and techniques to obtain the most informative and accurate testing results and patient care based on history, clinical observations, and patient presentation.
• Provides input to Manager on Neurodiagnostic Testing staff development, concerns, or issues on a routine basis.
• Exhibits a controlled emotional atmosphere and maintains a high amount of professionalism providing a stable and caring manner to all patients, family and staff.
• Participates in all mandatory education, in-services, and quality/ performance improvement initiatives.
• Provides department specific on call related duties days, evenings, and weekends as assigned.
• Participates in all mandatory education, in-services, and quality/ performance improvement initiatives.
• Initiates orders, adds or modifies charges, acknowledges exams requiring use of Epic and various computer programs.
• Performs various clerical duties as assigned.
• Ensures adequate stock levels are maintained. Other duties as assigned.
• MyMichigan Health is a technology driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft Windows.
• An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING AND SKILLS

• One year clinical experience preferred. Prefer 1 to 2 years' experience in EEG and/or NCS. Training is available for qualifying applicants under direct supervision of physician. Training should be completed within 1 year of consecutive full-time practical training.
• Ability to work independently under pressure with excellent communication skills (oral/written) and proficiency in troubleshooting required.
• Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize age specific care in the treatment, assessment, and education of pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients.
• Cleans and disinfects patient rooms and equipment after each use.
• Participates in department and Health System quality assurance programs.
• In the event of cardiac, respiratory arrest or other emergency, ability to call code response team and participate in patient care as needed.
• Overall dexterity is required, including handling, reaching and grasping. Computer skills, including basic knowledge of EMR systems and Microsoft Office software