Senior Vascular Scientist

Job overview

• To work as an experienced, SVT accredited Clinical Vascular Scientist able to work unsupervised and autonomously to perform a wide range of vascular diagnostic investigations selecting appropriate methods depending on patient need
• To report on own findings and discuss results with referring clinicians as appropriate
• Undertake specific non-scanning roles in the day-to-day management of the service as agreed with the Chief Vascular Scientist
• Take joint responsibility for daily workload planning and prioritising patients dependant on demand and resources while ensuring effective use of time
• To be involved in training new members of staff i.e. departmental trainees, Radiologists, Vascular Surgeons (SPR’s), AAA screening technicians, visiting technologists, clinicians and undertake audits/studies
• Travel to other sites within the Thames Valley Vascular Network to provide scanning support to outreach clinics
• Support and adapt to any service development needs including flexible working hours

Main duties of the job

• Be part of the VSU team performing a full range of non-invasive diagnostic tests on vascular patients, predominantly duplex ultrasound
• Write own diagnostic reports sharing with referring clinicians and uploading onto PACS
• Work closely with the vascular team, vascular ward, vascular triage and other services across the Trust and Thames Valley Vascular Network

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

CLINICAL

• At a highly specialised level, perform accurate and detailed assessments to diagnose and monitor peripheral arterial and venous disease of the lower limbs, upper limbs, abdomen and neck.  These mainly involve the use of colour Duplex ultrasound according to departmental protocols but may also include other relevant test modalities
• Take history and examine patients to ensure appropriate examinations are carried out
• To produce clear and concise reports in a timely fashion immediately after the investigations have been completed
• To report directly to the referring Consultant/clinician within an appropriate timeframe and arrange urgent assessment by the vascular team if patients condition warrants
• To communicate and expertly advise on results of all scans to clinicians and offer evidence based second opinions in cases of conflicting results between hospitals, junior staff or diagnostic modalities
• Take a lead prioritising incoming referrals and plan appropriate investigations. Discuss any workload planning issues with the Chief Vascular Scientist
• Provide advice in respect to on-going patient management where required
• Communicate the scan results and implications to the patient in an appropriate manner. Sensitivity and empathy are required when dealing with emotional topics that may result in major surgery or limb loss
• Reinforce information given by other healthcare professionals to the patients and relatives about risk factor management and disease processes
• Represent the JW Vascular Studies Unit at joint clinical review meetings including weekly MDT meetings
• Provide health education for patients with vascular disorders
• Adhere to local and departmental infection control policy and procedures

MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP

• Accept delegated responsibility for agreed aspects of the day-to-day running of the VSU to both ensure effective service provision and broaden personal development
• Deputise for the Chief Vascular Scientist when necessary
• Continual assessment and prioritising of incoming referrals and planning of appropriate investigations
• To assist in the development of initiatives in response to National and Local objectives
• Have input in devising, evaluating and updating scanning protocols set by the Chief Vascular Scientist
• Working with the Chief Vascular Scientist, ensure Trust policies, procedures and standards within the division (including occupational health and safety, infection control, fire, major incident, environmental and organisational issues) are adhered to
• Consult with the Chief Vascular Scientist regarding any complaints
• Set a positive and professional example to junior team members and trainees
• As part of a team responsibility, ensure stock levels are maintained to an adequate level
• To be aware of emergency procedures and health and safety requirements of the JW Vascular Studies Unit and Ward

TEACHING

• Undertake day-to-day supervision of trainees (Clinical Vascular Scientists) within the unit.  This includes training in both practical imaging skills and use of complex equipment and instrumentation in all aspects of vascular imaging
• Be responsible for the accuracy of reports generated by trainees under your supervision, making sure they correspond to the protocol of the JW Vascular Studies Unit
• Be involved in training Radiologists and Vascular Surgeons and Scientific Training Programme (STP) trainees
• Participate regularly in demonstrating or teaching other relevant members of staff including Vascular Scientists, Radiologists, Vascular Surgeons, Nurses, Physiotherapists, visiting Medical Students and Clinical Vascular Scientists both inside and outside the Oxfordshire area
• Participate in local training events as appropriate

RESEARCH AND PRACTICE DEVELOPMENT

• Assist in production and development of research funding applications and protocols
• Perform patient investigations as integral elements of research projects
• Present research results at scientific meetings
• Help develop the repertoire, knowledge and understanding within the JW Vascular Studies Unit by presenting research results/information
• Undertake vascular lab related audits
• Assist in developing clinical practices for improved service delivery

PERSONAL/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• To take responsibility for maintaining own professional growth, identifying training needs and maintaining a portfolio of Continuing Professional Development
• Maintain CSVS accreditation
• Review peer literature and other sources to maintain up to date knowledge of current practices and technological advances
• To complete mandatory training as required by the Trust and adhere to all Local and Trust Policies
• To behave in a professional manner at all times and act as an ambassador for the Trust and Division and when attending external functions
• Agree personal development goals at annual appraisals and work towards ensuring these are met
• Exercise professional accountability at all times and to be aware of own development needs/limitations, actively seeking to address these and raise awareness in others