Trainee AAA Screening Technician

Job overview

The Thames Valley Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening programme offers community-based ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms to an eligible cohort of more than 13,000 men. The target screening population are men in their 65th year.

The primary purpose of the Screening Technician role is to undertake the day-to-day operational running of AAA Clinics in the community, across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire with a large proportion of the programme’s clinics held in East Berkshire and South Buckinghamshire.

Main duties of the job

The primary purpose of this role is to perform ultrasound scanning as part of the National Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme (NAAASP). The post holder will ensure abdominal ultrasound scanning is undertaken to a high standard and in accordance with national 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 ensure that the men attending clinics are informed and aware of the implications of AAA screening.

The post holder will be responsible for informing the participant of the result of their scan and for ensuring the participant outcome is processed correctly.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

We are looking for someone who is willing to train as a technician. The trainee role is suitable for people from a variety of backgrounds who can undertake a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care which typically takes 12 months to complete. No previous experience is required as training will be given to ensure high standards of scanning in accordance with national operating procedures. The training also enables the Screening Technician to have confidence in explaining the screening programme, reassuring patients about the implications of the scan, discussing results and arranging the next steps, should it be required.

The post holder will initially work as an assistant practitioner, carrying out abdominal ultrasound scans within standard operating procedures. Following successful completion of the NAAASP course, the post holder will work independently and make judgements according to experience and training. Advice is available when needed for complex situations, but the post holder generally works on their own initiative without reference to the line manager.

• Organise and carry out ultrasound scans of the abdominal aorta in accordance with current guidelines for sonographic scanning and the programme protocol.
• Ensure that scan results are despatched as soon as possible from off-site screening clinics to the screening office in a safe and confidential way.
• Communicate the outcome of the screening test to the man (this may be via his relative/carer or interpreter); provide additional information and offer support appropriate to the outcome/patient pathway.
• Deal with medical and patient queries as appropriate, taking the initiative to prioritise work and to bring to the attention of medical or administrative staff any patient whose condition warrants it.
• Handle incidents and medical emergencies in a professional manner and in accordance with local policy, supporting other screening staff if appropriate.
• Keep the Screening Programme Manager, Team Leader Screening Technician, Programme Administrator and/or Clinical Skills Trainer informed of caseload and any difficulties arising, seeking advice where necessary.
• A full driving licence and use of a car are essential to this role and the successful candidate must be willing to travel frequently to cover all areas.

We are seeking dedicated, motivated, enthusiastic individuals with a ‘can do’ attitude who are eager to learn. The successful candidates must also be able to work autonomously with good organisational skills.

Applications from qualified technicians will also be considered.

Please see attached Job Description for more detail. Sponsorship may be possible.