Radiographer at St Dominic Catholic Hospital

Job Summary

• The Radiographer is responsible for performing high-quality diagnostic X-ray and CT scan examinations while ensuring optimal patient care, radiation safety, and regulatory compliance.
• The role requires strong technical expertise in general radiography and CT imaging, strict adherence to ALARA principles, and compliance with NNRA Radiation Safety in Medical Practice Regulations.

Key Duties & Responsibilities
Clinical Operations – X-ray & CT:

• Perform routine and specialized X-ray examinations, including chest, spine, extremities, skull, abdomen, and contrast studies as requested.
• Perform CT examinations, including head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, and contrast-enhanced studies according to approved protocols.
• Review physician referrals for clinical justification and screen for contraindications such as pregnancy, contrast allergy, and renal impairment.
• Select appropriate exposure factors, scan parameters, and reconstruction algorithms to optimize image quality while minimizing radiation dose.
• Administer IV contrast media for CT studies where authorized.
• Ensure accurate patient positioning, immobilization, and proper use of radiation protection devices for patients, staff, and self.

Radiation Safety & NNRA Compliance:

• Operate all ionizing radiation equipment strictly in accordance with SDCH’s NNRA Authorization Certificate.
• Apply ALARA principles at all times using dose optimization tools such as AEC, iterative reconstruction, collimation, and pediatric protocols.
• Wear a personal TLD dosimeter at chest level during procedures and submit monthly for review with the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO).
• Conduct daily warm-up, air calibration, and quality control (QC) tests on CT and X-ray units.
• Complete weekly and monthly QC checks according to manufacturer and NNRA guidelines.
• Ensure radiation warning lights, door interlocks, and signage remain functional, and access is restricted during exposures.
• Report incidents, equipment faults, contrast reactions, or suspected overexposures to the RSO within 24 hours.

Patient Care & Image Management:

• Explain procedures, obtain verbal consent, and reassure patients to reduce anxiety.
• Monitor patients during and after contrast administration for adverse reactions and initiate emergency response where necessary.
• Assess image quality before patient discharge and repeat scans only when clinically justified.
• Perform post-processing activities, including multiplanar reconstructions and 3D imaging.
• Transfer images promptly to PACS for reporting.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including patient registers, exposure factors, contrast details, scan parameters, and staff identification.

Quality, Maintenance & Administration:

• Maintain the cleanliness of equipment and scan rooms in line with infection control policies.
• Disinfect surfaces and the CT gantry between patients.
• Monitor and maintain consumables, including contrast media, syringes, IV lines, films, and CR cassettes.
• Report low stock levels promptly.
• Participate in radiation safety audits, dose audits, departmental CPD, and quality improvement activities.
• Maintain a valid RRBN practicing license and NNRA radiation worker status.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of Diagnostic Centre or RSO.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• CT & X-ray repeat rate below 3% due to operator error.
• 100% compliance with dosimeter usage and monthly submission.
• Patient dose audits are maintained within NNRA Diagnostic Reference Levels.
• Contrast extravasation rate below 1%.
• Zero breaches of NNRA license conditions.
• Image quality audit score of 90% or higher.

Qualifications & Experience
Education:

• B.Sc. in Radiography from a recognized institution.

Licensure:

• Current practicing license with the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN).

NNRA Requirement:

• Must be registered as a radiation worker with NNRA and authorized to operate X-ray and CT equipment.

Experience:

• 2–3 years post-NYSC experience.
• At least one (1) year of hands-on CT scan experience is required.

Certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
• IV cannulation and contrast administration training is an added advantage.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in multi-slice CT protocols and general radiography.
• Knowledge of PACS/RIS systems and dose reduction techniques.
• Ability to manage emergency contrast reactions effectively.

Key Competencies:

• Advanced knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and CT physics.
• Strong understanding of radiation protection principles and ALARA.
• Excellent attention to detail and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage emergencies, including contrast reactions.
• Strong communication, empathy, and patient management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in controlled radiation areas with exposure to ionizing radiation and contrast media. PPE and dosimetry are provided.
• The role requires prolonged standing, patient lifting/transfers, and manual dexterity.
• Rotational shifts, weekend duties, and on-call emergency coverage may be required.

Reporting Line:

• Reports operationally to the Head of Diagnostic Centre.
• Reports functionally to the appointed Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) on radiation safety matters.
• Clinical supervision provided by the Radiologist.