Screening Technician (AAA Screening programme), Band 4
Join us at an exciting time for Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust! We have an ambitious plan for our journey to Outstanding and are looking for aspirational, committed individuals to join us, making a real difference to both staff and patients.
As a former winner of England for excellence award: Tourism destination of the year, the beautiful city of Gloucester and the scenic regency spa town of Cheltenham are fantastic places to work and live.
As a hospital Trust we are currently involved in over 100 clinical trials and studies, whilst also providing acute elective and specialist services to a population of over 620,000.
By joining Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust new colleagues can look forward to a warm welcome and a future full of opportunities and support.
Job overview
Screening Technician (AAA Screening programme), Band 4- 5 hours a week
The primary purpose of this role is to undertake abdominal ultrasound scanning as part of the community AAA screening programme. The post holder will ensure abdominal ultrasound scanning is undertaken to a high standard and in accordance with national standard operating procedures as identified by the National Screening Programme (NAAASP).
We pride ourselves in providing excellent care within the community, as close to home as possible, whilst achieving the highest level of service. We develop and nurture our staff and recognise that they are our greatest asset.
We give them clear career pathways, support their wellbeing, recognise and value their diversity and provide them with the leadership, skills and knowledge they need to deliver the best care for our patients now and in the future.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will work as a screening technician and use knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the abdominal aorta to identify the area to be scanned and record measurements accurately and appropriately. The role involves using ultrasound, using techniques within NAAASP standard operating procedures.The post holder will apply specialist training and experience to manipulate ultrasound machine controls to gain maximum image optimisation. You will work independently and make judgements according to experience and training. Advice and support will be available for more complex situations, however, the post holder will generally be working under their own initiative without reference to the line manager.
The successful candidate will be expected to establish good and effective working relationships with the following.
Patients and family members/carers that attend for clinic appointments
The Screening Coordinators and the wider screening technical and administrative team
The Programme Director
Clinical Skills Trainer
Quality Assurance Lead
The staff and management of local sites/clinics where screening takes place.
Members of the public
Vascular Consultants
Clinical and other staff from different specialties including IT and Medical Imaging
Working for our organisation
We are a small friendly dynamic team, based in Gloucester who deliver ‘Aneurysm Screening’ to eligible men around the counties of Gloucestershire & Swindon.
This is an excellent opportunity to train as a screening technician or bring experience to our passionate and enthusiastic team. We are a very successful, high performing screening programme with an excellent reputation within our community and Nationally.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Working days are mainly Monday – Friday but may include some weekend work. A degree of flexibility regarding days worked is essential. This is a permanent position.
Our base is at GRH but clinics are held daily around Gloucestershire and Swindon.
The post holder will be required to complete the Level 3 Health Screener’s Diploma (AAA). Following successful completion of the Health Screener’s Diploma (AAA), the post holder will work independently and make judgements according to experience and training.
The post holder will work as an assistant practitioner, carrying out abdominal ultrasound scans within standard operating procedures.
The post holder will reassure men attending the community AAA screening and surveillance clinics and explain the screening test to them.
The post holder will have a key role in conducting quality assurance assessments of machines as per National Guidelines – to include safe care, maintenance and handling of all equipment as used by self and others.
Communicate effectively with patients, carers, relatives and all members of the multidisciplinary team.
Maintain and develop high standards of care.
Take on responsibility for personal development and maintaining specialist knowledge of AAA Screening Programme.
Contribute towards the continuing development of professional screening practice in the clinical area.
Conduct oneself in a professional manner and be a role model to others.Work proactively to ensure that every patient attendance meets the patient’s expectations and needs.
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria- 5 GCSE (grade 'C' or above) or equivalent, to include a science
- Clean full driving licence and daily access to a car
- Level 3 National Health Screeners Diploma – Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
- Evidence of ongoing professional development through maintenance of professional portfolio and registration revalidation
Experience
Essential criteria- Able to handle sensitive/ confidential information
- Excellent time management
- Work under pressure and on own initiative
- Demonstrate knowledge of Health Screening and its importance
- Experience of working within the care sector
Knowledge/ Skills
Essential criteria- Good understanding of IT requirements and skills
- A thorough understanding of the health effects of aneurysms
- Able to travel independently across Gloucestershire and Swindon to fulfil the requirements of the post
- Able to move/lift ultrasound and screening kit
- Able to work flexibly and adapt to change
- Knowledge of the National Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme
The health and wellbeing of our staff and patients remains the priority of the Trust. Vaccination remains the best chance we have of conquering COVID and the Trust encourages everyone to take up this offer.
Please note, this vacancy may close as soon as sufficient applications have been received, so please apply as soon as possible if you are interested. The Recruitment Team are unable to accept any applications after the position has closed on NHS Jobs.
Committed to safeguarding our community
If applicable for the post, all successful candidates will be required to pay for their own Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The cost will be £29 (standard checks) or £46 (enhanced checks), and will be recovered through two instalments from the candidate's salary.Please contact [email protected] for further information.
The Trust is a safeguarding employer committed to the safeguarding and promotion of welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Trust is committed to safe recruitment practices to protect children and vulnerable adults, and any appointment will be subject to satisfactory clearance.As part of the organisation's commitment to Safer Recruitment, candidates may request copies of relevant policies and procedures by contacting the Recruitment Team at [email protected]
Committed to supporting service personnel
As part of our commitment to support Service Personnel, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, in collaboration with the Career Transition Partnership, offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for all qualifying Service and Ex-Service Personnel.To qualify for a guaranteed interview, candidates must meet the essential criteria for the post and be either a current member of the Armed Forces, or be within the two year period of resettlement. If this applies to you please email the job reference number and your AR number to the Recruitment Team at [email protected]
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