IOM Technologist I

Under the direction of the Chief OR Technologist and the Medical Director, performs standard and complex intraoperative neurodiagnostic procedures as described by MGH Neuro Intraoperative Monitoring protocols. Under the supervision of an experienced technologist, this technologist provides troubleshooting and technical interpretation of intraoperative neurologic data during surgery to the Medical Director and to the surgical team. The technologist is responsible for the accurate recording and documentation of SSEP, TcMEP, EMG/Triggered EMG, BAEP, and EEG waveforms. In addition, the technologist will also be responsible for recording and the documentation of cortical motor/sensory mapping, ECoG, and direct peripheral nerve stimulation cases. The technologist assists in the maintenance of equipment, patient data, and supplies as directed by the IOM Chief Technologist. This person will act as an interactive part of the operating room team, assisting in duties as appropriate. As MGH continues to research and apply intraoperative monitoring methods and techniques to new procedures, the technologist will be required to learn new protocols as they are developed and may be asked to participate in the development of these protocols.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Note: All duties and responsibilities are at the discretion of the chief technologist. This technologist will deliver care under the direction of a more experienced technologist, at all times. This technologist will also have access to an experienced technologist to ask questions, advice, or general help. This technologist will primarily be involved with cases that build upon fundamental skills.

Provides intraoperative monitoring for multiple surgical procedures as directed. Technologist is also knowledgeable of which neurodiagnostic procedures may be relevant to the surgical case.

Throughout the surgical procedure the technologist must be able to provide continuous on-line technical interpretation to the surgical and NIOM teams.

Assures that the interpreting neurophysiology physician is notified of potential issues. When possible, assures the real-time remote monitoring system is available.

Responsible for preparing patients prior to draping for surgery, setting up for all possible appropriate monitoring procedures. Preparation is by applying scalp electrodes (using the international 10-20 system and collodion glue), other electrodes and stimulators with the utmost accuracy and security. Measures the electrical impedance and determines the integrity of all monitors, prior to the draping of the patient.

Informs the patient about the neurodiagnostic procedure and answers questions as appropriate. Abstracts relevant clinical information from the patient's chart, the patient, and from the surgeon when necessary.

Prepares a preliminary technical report describing the recording throughout the procedure. While monitoring, meticulously documents all surgical and related procedures and communications with the surgical team.

Assists in the maintenance of databases and of patients' permanent documents.

Must have a moderate understanding of all of the surgical procedures being performed.

Keeps abreast of current developments in the IOM field and participates in educational conferences, meetings, and/or other activities that promote continuing education.

Applies infection control standards, aseptic, and sterile techniques, with particular attention to any monitoring instrumentation that enters the sterile field.

Understanding of and ability to use Xltek/Natus based equipment

Knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications including Excel and Access

Ability to learn new software applications.

Knowledge of general principles of modern anesthetic techniques, the effects of different anesthetic regimens on the waveforms being recorded, and the structures responsible for generating the effects.

Knowledge of infection control, aseptic and sterile techniques.

Ability to work with all patient populations and age ranges. This includes patient care and patient/family/social interaction issues, as well as technical adaptations.

Technologist is able to work well with all surgeons and team members. Ability to work as a cohesive team member of the team, use/care of equipment and supplies as well as appropriately assisting with other duties as appropriate.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or REGISTRATIONS:

Not required

Preferred: ABRET (R.EEG.T / CNIM) certification

Field of Study/Additional Specialized Training:

Must meet one of the four criteria below:

(1) CAAHEP Diploma

(2) Current R.EEG.T or R.EP.T

(3) Bachelor's degree or higher (foreign degrees may be acceptable)

(4) Certificate of completion from ABRET recognized program

EXPERIENCE:

Required: No IOM experience required.

Preferred: Experience working in an Operating Room environment is preferred.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.