Overview of role
UPMC are hiring a bank Radiology Assistant to join the Radiology team at UPMC Whitfield Hospital, Waterford. The Diagnostic Imaging Department provides a service to both Inpatients and Outpatients and includes General Radiography, Theatre Imaging, Ultrasound, DEXA, MRI, PET CT, CT and CathLab services. The post holder will work as part of the Multidisciplinary team in the Radiology Department and assist in providing a high-quality service to patients in assigned areas. The role includes clinical and administrative duties that support Radiographers in delivering a high-quality service to users. The successful candidate will be rostered in the Radiology department and will assist the Radiographers and Radiologists in the areas of MRI, Ultrasound, CT, Image management and General Radiography.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
* General & MRI Duties:
* Welcome patients and their guardians to the imaging service in a professional manner; escort patients and relevant paperwork to the MRI Suite.
* Escort patient and relevant paperwork to MRI Suite.
* Check labels for IV gadolinium & Buscopan patients.
* Respect patient confidentiality and privacy regarding information discussed during examination.
* Assist Radiographers during all Diagnostic Imaging examinations, including moving and lifting of patients and equipment.
* Assist patients in completing consent forms for procedures.
* Check patient screening forms and verify: Name, DOB, Address (tick for completion).
* Discuss with patient any history of metal in eyes; ensure patient has signed the forms.
* Assist patient to change into gowns, remove jewellery and lock belongings.
* Provide a brief outline of the MRI procedure, call bell and headphones; provide ear plugs to patient.
* Ensure scan/examination rooms are tidy and stock is replenished before sessions.
* Assist the Radiographer in coil and patient setup for scan; scan paperwork and complete insurance details on forms.
* Check emails/Teams and resolve outstanding insurance queries; share correspondence as needed.
* Assist patient off the scanner, assist with room cleanup and prep for next patient.
* Monitor stock levels of consumables and highlight reorder needs; restock trolley, gloves, syringes, needles and dressings.
* Replenish gowns, couch rolls and incontinence sheets; empty linen bins at end of shift.
* Liaise with wards to ensure timely transfer of patients to and from the department.
* Direct patients to changing cubicles for X-ray examinations and assist with changing if required.
* Reassure patients when examinations are delayed and provide a reasonable completion estimate.
* Assist in transferring patients from trolleys/wheelchairs to examination tables; training in use of hoists if required.
* Supervise and assist patients as needed (e.g., toileting).
* Rotation areas may include MRI, CT, Ultrasound, General X-ray & Theatres, and the PACS department; may develop in the future.
* To assist with any other work in the Radiology Department as required, on instruction from the Radiography Service Manager/CSR or designate.
RIS / PACS Office Support
* When required, assist with queries regarding image/CD requests and image transfer via BEAM.
* Maintain accurate up-to-date filing systems and records (computerised/paper copy).
* Undertake other administrative support as directed; ensure data quality and integrity to standards.
* Assist RIS/PACS/BEAM Administrator in monitoring CD requests and ensure GDPR and confidentiality guidelines are followed.
Ultrasound Department
* Escort patients to and from ultrasound examination rooms; assist Sonographer/Radiologist with workload and sterile procedures.
* Monitor inpatient ultrasound list on RIS and liaise with wards re transport and preparation (e.g., ensuring full bladders for pelvic scans) in consultation with the Sonographer.
* Ensure timely inpatient transfers from wards and other departments as directed by the sonographers.
* Arrange patient transport for examinations; assist patients changing into gowns and other needs as directed by sonographers.
* Assist with lifting, moving and positioning patients; provide chaperone for intimate ultrasound examinations when requested.
* Follow infection control procedures; sterilise ultrasound probes post-procedure and after isolation cases.
* Carry out general housekeeping in the Ultrasound Department and monitor stocks and consumables daily.
* Maintain professional standards regarding consent, confidentiality, ethics and legislation.
Routine Maintenance of Equipment
* Assist the Radiation Protection Officer or Radiographer with Quality Assurance duties.
* Assist radiographers with equipment breakdowns; report faults to the Radiography Service Manager or deputy.
Administrative
* Carry out administrative and clerical duties to support Radiographer staff and the Radiography department (e.g., scan paperwork, insurance documents, system close-out).
* Register requests onto the RIS as required; answer phones, pass on messages and make calls as needed.
* Maintain stock and supply records; liaise with radiography staff re stocks and supplies; contribute to service improvements.
Education and Training
* Take advice and training as required; participate in departmental audits and team-based development, training and learning.
* Participate in induction of new staff; develop and maintain knowledge of guidelines and hospital policies.
* Maintain knowledge of: clinical risk reporting, occupational health, facilities management, patient moving and handling, resuscitation/BLS, health and safety, departmental financial controls, patient complaints, falls management.
Information Resources
* Efficient use of RIS and PACS and other required systems to fulfil daily duties.
Health and Safety
* Work safely under the Health, Safety and Welfare at Work Act and related legislation; identify, assess and report risks; comply with HIQA standards and UPMC protocols.
* Report accidents and near misses; wear appropriate PPE; only undertake duties you are trained for.
* Familiar with fire regulations and emergency plans; support sustainability initiatives where applicable.
The above Job Specification is not a comprehensive list of duties; the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate and contribute to the post’s development.
Qualifications & Experience
Minimum Requirements:
* A Fetac/QQI Level 5 in Health/Social Care is essential
* Previous experience in a Radiography Department is desirable
* Excellent interpersonal and team-building skills; strong communication and clinical skills
* Fluency in English (written and spoken); computer literate; flexible and proactive; capable of working independently and in a team
Knowledge, skills & abilities:
* Work in the Radiology Department day-to-day; be flexible; knowledge of radiographic equipment and procedures; ability to follow instructions and protocols
* Attention to detail, accuracy in positioning patients; communication with patients and healthcare professionals
* Understanding of MRI and radiation safety; ability to work in a fast-paced environment
* Flexibility, adaptability; computer skills for data entry and record keeping; physical stamina for standing and moving patients
* Teamwork and collaboration
Professional Knowledge:
* Understanding of the Radiology Assistant role; comply with health and safety requirements; develop IT skills relevant to the role
* Planning and Organising: plan, prioritise, take initiative
Teamwork / Relationship Building:
* Effective teamwork, respect for colleagues; contribute to a positive working environment; manage conflicts professionally
Commitment to Quality:
* Deliver high-quality, person-centred service; maintain dignity, confidentiality and openness to change
Communications & Interpersonal Skills:
* Effective verbal and written communication; professionalism and empathy; respond appropriately to service users with varying needs
Equal Opportunity Statement and Benefits
UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive environment for all employees.
At UPMC we offer a total rewards program that is market competitive and provides growth opportunities for all colleagues.
Compensation – Competitive pay including base pay, performance pay and premium pay where applicable.
Benefits – Fully paid maternity/paternity leave; pension plan; death in service benefit x3; critical illness cover.
Performance and Recognition – ACES programme rewards for performance aligned with UPMC goals.
Work-Life Balance – Enhanced annual leave up to 27 days; flexible working options.
Development and Career Opportunities – Opportunities to reach career goals through continued learning and advancement.
About UPMC
UPMC is a multinational academic medical centre delivering patient-focused care. In Ireland, UPMC Whitfield Hospital is part of UPMC’s network including other hospitals and centres; UPMC International operates across Ireland, Italy and Croatia.
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