NEURODIAGNOSTIC TECHNICIAN (EEG) APPRENTICE at Billings Clinic in Billings, Montana

Job Description:

On the job training opportunity! The Neurodiagnostic Technologist Apprentice is taught the responsibilities, duties, and skills of a Neurodiagnostic Technologist. Professionals in this health science field study and record the electrical activity of the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems using sophisticated electronic testing equipment. At all times the Neurodiagnostic Technologist Apprentice works under the supervision and direction of the Neurodiagnostic Technologist Trainer. Through this apprenticeship, the student will learn to conduct Electroencephalogram (EEG), Video EEG Monitoring, Ambulatory EEG Monitoring and Evoked Potential (EP) examinations, and all other Neurophysiology tests including transcranial dopplers (TCD), nerve conduction velocity (NCV), and Intra-Operative Monitoring. Through the partnership with the Institute of Health Sciences, training is achieved providing the ability, education, and expertise required of a Neurodiagnostic Technologist I to meet the needs of patients of all ages from neonates to geriatrics.


Through the Institute of Health Sciences, online education is provided and designed to provide students with theory and clinical experience in a variety of EEG, EP, and Polysomnography (PSG) testing procedures. Students will obtain the necessary instruction to become a competent Neurodiagnostic Technologist.
Instruction is provided through web-based software along with one-on-one clinical instruction with a registered technologist. The program length is 48 weeks and includes instruction in EEG, EP, PSG and NCV technologies. Courses are offered over 4 quarters beginning in April and October of each year. The program is a combination of web-based instruction and clinical experience. Students must be highly motivated and willing to work at a fast pace. Clinical experience will be done at Billings Clinic where students will obtain "hands on" experience.


Essential Job Functions
• Prepares patient for the procedure ordered. Obtains pertinent patient information for performing procedure. Explains procedure to patient and obtains patient's cooperation for best performance of procedure. Accurately measures prior to electrode/capsule application and prepares patient according to specific test procedure. Properly and accurately applies recording electrodes and lowers electrode resistance. Inputs appropriate patient information into computer.
• Operates instrument for the test performed. Ensures all equipment is operational prior to procedure. Troubleshoots equipment malfunction with trainer. Identifies and reports equipment problems to supervisor.
• Performs appropriate procedure for physician interpretation. Evaluates patient referral and clinical notes to ensure appropriate testing is performed. Follows established test protocols. Recognizes and discriminates between normal and abnormal patterns/wave forms, deviates from procedure as appropriate. Changes instrument control settings as appropriate for optimum test results. Verifies that all data, calculations and patient information is correct as directed by Neurodiagnostic Technologist trainer.
• Responsible for cleanliness/maintenance of electrodes and follows established infection control guidelines.
• Interacts with patients according to patient care guidelines. Communicates appropriate test instructions to patient.
• Utilizes performance improvement principles to assess and improve quality.