Cath Lab Radiographer at The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE)

Job Purpose

• The Cath Lab Radiographer will operate specialized imaging equipment in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory to support diagnostic and interventional cardiovascular procedures. This role involves producing high-quality radiographic images, assisting cardiologists during catheterization procedures, ensuring patient safety, and maintaining equipment according to established protocols at the African Medical Centre of Excellence.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Procedural Imaging Support

• Operate fluoroscopic, angiographic, and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) equipment during cardiac catheterization, percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), pacemaker/ICD implantations, and other interventional cardiology procedures.
• Acquire and process diagnostic-quality images including coronary angiography, left ventriculography, aortography, and peripheral vascular studies.
• Collaborate with cardiologists to optimize imaging parameters for different procedural requirements and patient anatomies.
• Assist during complex interventional procedures including structural heart interventions (TAVR, mitral valve repairs) and electrophysiology studies.

Patient Care & Safety

• Prepare patients for procedures, including positioning, sterile draping, and physiological monitoring setup.
• Monitor patients during procedures for contrast reactions, arrhythmias, and other potential complications.
• Ensure radiation safety measures are strictly followed, including proper use of protective shielding, dose monitoring, and ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.
• Maintain aseptic technique throughout procedures to prevent infections.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Perform daily quality control checks on cath lab imaging systems, hemodynamic monitoring equipment, and ancillary devices.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with biomedical engineering for repairs and maintenance.
• Maintain accurate equipment logs, service records, and radiation safety documentation.
• Assist in the evaluation and implementation of new cath lab technologies and equipment.

Image Management & Documentation

• Archive and retrieve procedure images using PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) and other digital storage systems.
• Ensure proper labeling, annotation, and documentation of all acquired images and procedural data.
• Prepare imaging components of procedural reports in collaboration with the cath lab team.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and data security in accordance with hospital policies.

Team Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with interventional cardiologists, nurses, cardiac technicians, and anaesthetists as part of the cath lab team.
• Participate in pre-procedure briefings and post-procedure debriefings.
• Communicate effectively with patients to explain procedures, alleviate anxiety, and obtain necessary cooperation.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Participate in departmental quality assurance programs, including image quality audits and procedural reviews.
• Adhere to infection control protocols, radiation safety regulations, and hospital policies.
• Maintain certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
• Stay updated with advancements in cardiac imaging technology and interventional cardiology practices.

Emergency Response

• Be prepared to assist in emergency situations including cardiac arrests, contrast reactions, and procedural complications.
• Maintain emergency equipment and supplies in the cath lab in ready-to-use condition.
• Participate in emergency on-call rotations as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Radiography, Medical Imaging, or Radiology Technology from an accredited institution.
• Current registration with the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN) or equivalent licensing body.
• Certification in Cardiovascular Interventional Radiography (CVIR) or similar specialty certification is highly desirable.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a radiographer, with at least 1 year of specialized experience in a cardiac catheterization laboratory or interventional radiology setting.
• Proficiency in operating Siemens, Philips, or GE cardiac cath lab equipment.
• Experience with hemodynamic monitoring systems and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is advantageous.
• Knowledge of sterile techniques, cardiovascular anatomy, and interventional cardiology procedures.
• Strong attention to detail, technical skills, and ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and patient care skills.
• Commitment to radiation safety principles and continuous professional development.