The Cardiac MRI Radiographer will play a key role within the Cross‑Sectional Imaging team, delivering a high‑quality, patient‑centred cardiac MRI service. The post holder will independently perform a broad range of cardiac MRI examinations, including ventricular function assessment, viability imaging, congenital heart studies, and stress perfusion imaging. They will have proven MRI experience, with either existing cardiac MRI skills or a strong commitment to developing specialist competence through structured internal training.
The role requires the ability to plan, perform, and adapt cardiac MRI scans autonomously to ensure optimal image quality while maintaining patient safety and comfort. After completing appropriate training, the post holder will manage pharmacological stress studies, including patient preparation, monitoring, and safe delivery in collaboration with the cardiac team. Working closely with cardiac radiologists, cardiologists, and MRI physicists, they will support protocol optimisation, service development, and continuous quality improvement.
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong clinical judgement, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to delivering high standards of patient care. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop specialist expertise within a dynamic and expanding cardiac MRI service.
Job Summary
The post‑holder will work in collaboration with the Superintendent Radiographer to deliver a high‑quality MRI service at Harefield Hospital. Approximately 85% of departmental activity involves Cardiac MRI imaging for a busy primary angioplasty service and an advanced heart failure/cardiothoracic transplant centre. The post‑holder will promote and maintain the highest standards of patient care within the Trust and will take responsibility for the MRI unit when required. As part of a specialist team, they will contribute to continuous service improvement and support the positive reputation of the department both nationally and internationally. Participation in extended hours duties will be required in line with service needs.
Main Tasks and Responsibilities
Communication
* Train radiographers and undergraduate students in MRI scanning equipment, techniques, and procedures.
* Assist in supervising IV cannulation training within the MRI unit.
* Provide advice to colleagues on MRI safety and ensure compliance with local rules.
* Liaise with other hospital departments, wards, and external partners to support a high‑quality imaging service.
* Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients, relatives, and staff.
* Explain procedures clearly and provide reassurance to help patients cooperate, including those with significant anxiety or communication barriers.
* Use tact and sensitivity when obtaining personal information (e.g., pregnancy status).
* Reassure and support claustrophobic patients to facilitate successful scanning.
* Assist the Superintendent Radiographer with liaison with engineers and medical physics, including workload reorganisation during equipment faults.
* Train radiographers and visiting doctors in MRI and CMR techniques.
* Welcome and assist visitors to the CMR department.
* Maintain strong working relationships with the multidisciplinary team across the hospital.
* Participate in continued staff development programmes.
* Participate in weekend MRI lists as required.
Patient and Customer Care (Direct and Indirect)
* Perform MRI procedures, particularly Cardiac MRI examinations.
* Carry out image post‑processing and volumetric analysis for inclusion in the physician’s final report.
* Undertake imaging procedures as part of approved research projects.
* Liaise with MRI medical staff regarding planning and scheduling of investigations.
* Position and prepare patients appropriately for MRI examinations.
* Assess MRI images for diagnostic quality and clinical relevance, taking appropriate action when required.
* Perform IV cannulation for the administration of MRI contrast agents.
* Initiate and assist with patient resuscitation in emergencies, following Trust guidelines.
* Prepare, load, and operate contrast power injectors as required.
* Operate patient monitoring equipment safely and effectively.
* Clean biological or other spills according to Trust infection control policies.
* Assess patient fitness for MRI procedures and determine the safest method of transferring and positioning patients.
* Use initiative and sound judgement when prioritising workload, often managing multiple clinical demands.
* Undertake any additional duties relevant to the role as assigned by the Superintendent Radiographer or Imaging Service Manager.
Emotional Effort
The post involves occasional exposure to distressing or emergency situations. While most procedures proceed smoothly, emergencies may arise quickly, creating unpredictable and emotionally demanding work patterns.
Policy & Service Development
* Assist the MRI Superintendent in developing MRI procedures and policies.
* Help maintain and improve MRI techniques and patient care standards, particularly within Cardiac MRI.
* Maintain high professional standards in line with HCPC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics, and Standards of Proficiency for Radiographers.
Resource Management
* Use complex and high‑value MRI equipment safely and responsibly.
* Report equipment malfunctions promptly and take appropriate follow‑up action to ensure safety.
* Perform equipment testing as part of the Quality Assurance programme and act when results fall outside expected tolerances.
People Management
* Share responsibility for coordinating staff who receive visitors and demonstrate MRI equipment.
* Supervise junior radiographers, undergraduate students, visiting radiographers or doctors, and clerical/portering staff.
* Assist with staff recruitment in accordance with Trust procedures.
* Contribute to the induction, training, and supervision of radiographic staff in the MRI unit.
* Teach and support radiographers, students, and other staff in MRI and Cardiac MRI techniques.
* Ensure student and visiting radiographer practice complies with statutory and local safety regulations.
* Organise workload and coordinate portering to ensure timely patient flow.
* Assist with staff appraisals, supporting meaningful personal development plans informed by multi‑source feedback.
* Coordinate training programmes within the MRI department and support staff in maintaining Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Information Management
* Oversee the secure import and export of confidential imaging data.
* Ensure statistics and records are maintained accurately as required by the Imaging Service Manager.
* Input data accurately into the Hospital Information System and ensure correct use of PACS/EPIC.
This advert closes on Sunday 10 May 2026
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