Job overview

Using knowledge and competences demonstrated since qualification and as a Band 6 radiographer in the Cardiac Catheter Laboratory, carry out all clinical duties required during cardiac invasive procedures providing specialist radiological clinical technical services.  

 Working within a multidisciplinary, sterile environment, with highly sophisticated, specialised equipment, the responsibilities of the post holder include patient care, patient and equipment positioning, acquisition, manipulation and archive/hardcopy of radiographic images.  As both diagnostic and interventional examinations require the introduction of catheters and guide wires into the heart and its major arterial or venous system, it is essential that the procedure is performed quickly and that all images produced demonstrate the required anatomy in a rapid and efficient sequence of projections.

 The procedures involve the use of a wide range of expensive, sterile consumables and a detailed knowledge of these is required. The radiographer is expected to provide advice to the Specialist Registrars on appropriate equipment selection i.e. catheters, which will facilitate the procedure.

Cardiac angiography procedures are high radiation dose examinations, and the radiographer is a highly trained expert in radiation protection. Minimising radiation dose to the patient, operator and other staff present during the procedure is a critical responsibility of the post.

Main duties of the job

A Cardiac  radiographer role is a highly specialised role whereby well-developed interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the multi-disciplinary team is essential.

The ideal candidate will have the ability to remain calm under pressure with a frequently unpredictable work pattern.

A comprehensive knowledge of adult cardiac anatomy, cardiac function and its role in physiology is essential.

You need to be able to demonstrate a high degree of manual dexterity when operating radiographic equipment and the ability to function independently (unsupervised) using own initiative in relation to operating radiographic equipment

Demonstrable effective organisational/time management skills and the ability to process complex information are key areas of this role aswell as being flexible to meet the demands of the service .

An in-depth knowledge of all procedures performed within in the Cardiac Catheter Laboratory is required because of the speciality. 

Self-motivated, team worker and a professional role model with a  good standard of health and fitness is required due to the nature of the work and prolonged periods of standing in one position whilst wearing Radiation PPE and sole working whilst on call.

As a Band 6 radiographer with specialist skills in cardiac radiography, the post holder is expected to assist in the training, supervision and support of more junior colleagues.

Working for our organisation

We support the Making Every Contact Count approach to behaviour change in the promotion of health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.

South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust offers leadership and improvement training to all new staff.  This training programme has been designed to support our leaders in developing their understanding of leadership and management skills.  You will be expected to attend the following training sessions:

•    Your Leadership Impact
•    Leading your Team to Success
•    Leading Into the Future 
•    Service Improvement for Beginners
•    Developing your Service Improvement Skills 
•    Lean Practitioner 

The leadership and improvement programme aims to:

•    Explore leadership within the NHS
•    Promote Trust values and behaviours
•    Develop your leadership effectiveness and skills 
•    Equip staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to lead and complete service improvements within the scope of your role.

After you complete these six and a half days of training you will be able to explore further leadership and improvement training opportunities. We also offer a range of additional in-house and externally provided courses and bitesize programmes through our Leadership and Improvement Team.