Neurodiagnostic Technician I

Under direct supervision of the laboratory supervisor, the Neurodiagnostic Tech I prepares patients for and conducts routine Electroneurodiagnostic (END) procedures; collects data pertinent to the interpretation of test results.  Assists senior technologists or medical staff with complex recordings.

• Performs END procedures in EEG and at least one other modality (EP, LTEM, NCV, PSG, or Intraoperative Neuromonitoring) under direct supervision and in accordance with the standards and protocols of the laboratory.
• Measures and accurately applies electrodes in a timely manner and with appropriate impedances.
• Demonstrates competency in multiple electrode application techniques.
• Documents a comprehensive patient history gathering appropriate information from patient, patients record, and family members including neurological symptomatology and medications.
• Verifies identity of patient and provides adequate patient ID on all studies. Protects patient confidentiality.
• Evaluates the patient for comprehension and ability to cooperate.
• Utilizes approved methods to improve patient cooperation/relaxation.
• Follows department protocols for sedation.
• Educates the patient and/or family on the test procedure, interacting on a level appropriate to the patients age and mental capacity.
• Attends to patient needs while in the department and ensures patient safety at all times.
• Demonstrates knowledge of appropriate actions to take during emergency situations.
• Ensures electrical safety of patient and staff.
• Implements alternative methods or adjusts controls to obtain optimal recording. This may include appropriate control setting changes on the machine, use of extra electrodes, extra montages, and use of activation procedures.
• Recognizes artifacts (patient, instrumental, or environmental).
• Documents, eliminates, or takes proper measures to monitor the artifact.
• Demonstrates knowledge of departmental infection control standards relating to patient, equipment, and electrodes.
• Complies with department/institution guidelines for handling of infectious/hazardous materials.
• Keeps equipment clean and in proper working order.
• Verifies appropriate calibrations and makes adjustments, if necessary.
• Troubleshoots equipment problems and repairs or reports to supervisor promptly.
• Demonstrates positive interpersonal communication skills with patients, their families, lab staff, physicians, and other members of the hospital staff.
• Demonstrates knowledge of neuroanatomy, physiology, basic electronics, electrical safety, END instrumentation, pattern recognition, and various medical and pharmacological conditions that influence END procedures.
• Demonstrates basic computer skills.
• Reviews studies with Technical Director and/or interpreting physician and implements suggestions for quality  improvement.
• Learns to perform additional and advanced END procedures by supervised practice with increasing independence.
• Performs clerical duties as required including scheduling of procedures, archiving of studies, and charge entry.
• Expands knowledge by participation in conferences, in-services, and independent study.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Supervisory Responsibilities: This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

Grade 856