Description
Perform screening and diagnostic mammograms using digital mammography and tomosynthesis, ensuring high-quality images, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Educate and position patients, assist with breast interventional procedures, and manage imaging data and quality control per MQSA/ACR standards.
- • Review mammographic images for positioning, exposure, artifacts, and diagnostic adequacy; repeat when needed.
- • Operate digital mammography and tomosynthesis (DBT) systems and ancillary equipment.
- • Position patients and breasts for CC, MLO, and supplemental views; apply appropriate compression.
- • Set exposure factors and compression per protocol and patient body habitus.
- • Explain procedures, reduce anxiety, and monitor patient comfort and safety throughout exams.
- • Obtain and document relevant breast history, symptoms, implants, prior imaging, and risk factors.
- • Verify orders, determine exam needs, and select required views per radiologist protocol.
- • Enter exam data and technical factors in RIS/PACS; label, annotate, and submit images.
- • Utilize CAD/AI and post-processing tools as directed to support interpretation.
- • Follow ALARA and radiation safety practices for patients and staff.
- • Prepare rooms and stock supplies, markers, paddles, and disinfectants.
- • Maintain infection control and equipment cleaning between patients.
- • Perform daily, weekly, and monthly QC tests; maintain MQSA/ACR logs and documentation.
- • Monitor equipment performance and promptly report malfunctions.
- • Maintain current mammography positioning and imaging protocols.
- • Retrieve, reconcile, and upload prior exams for comparison.
- • Assist radiologists with stereotactic biopsies, wire/seed localizations, and cyst aspirations.
- • Prepare supplies and verify specimen handling for interventional procedures.
- • Provide post-procedure instructions and observe for adverse reactions or complications.
- • Coordinate workflow with schedulers and technologists to meet screening and diagnostic timelines.
- • Participate in recall workflow; perform spot compression and magnification views as ordered.
- • Ensure accurate patient identification, consent, and pregnancy screening as applicable.
- • Assist patients with changing, positioning, and mobility needs while maintaining privacy.
- • Operate mobile mammography units at outreach events, if applicable.
- • Record, process, and maintain patient records, exam reports, and outcome audit data required by MQSA.
- • Train and mentor students or new technologists in positioning, image quality, and QC practices.
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Healthcare & Human Services
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
