Trainee AAA Screening Technician

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; Oxford; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A major NHS teaching trust is seeking a Screening Technician to conduct ultrasound scans for the National Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme. This role entails organizing and performing scans, communicating results, and ensuring high standards of patient care. Candidates must have a clean driving license, access to a vehicle, and a proactive attitude. Comprehensive training will be provided, requiring no prior experience.

Qualifications

• Clean full driving license is required.
• Access to a vehicle for frequent travel.
• No prior experience required; training provided.

Responsibilities

• Organise and carry out ultrasound scans of the abdominal aorta.
• Ensure scan results are despatched promptly to the screening office.
• Communicate screening outcomes to men and provide support.

Skills

Attention to detail

Good communication skills

Computer literacy

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care

5 GCSEs

Job description

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 clinics held in East Berkshire and South Buckinghamshire.

The primary responsibility of this role is to perform ultrasound scanning as part of the National Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme (NAAASP). The post holder will ensure high-standard abdominal ultrasound scans are conducted in accordance with national standard operating procedures. They will reassure men attending community AAA screening and surveillance clinics, explaining the screening test to them, and ensuring they are informed about the implications of AAA screening. The post holder will inform participants of their scan results and ensure outcomes are processed correctly.

Initially, the post holder will work as an assistant practitioner, carrying out abdominal ultrasound scans within standard operating procedures. After successful completion of the NAAASP course, they will work independently, making judgments based on experience and training, with advice available for complex cases. Typically, they will work on their own initiative without direct supervision.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Organise and carry out ultrasound scans of the abdominal aorta following current guidelines and programme protocols.
2. Ensure scan results are dispatched promptly and securely to the screening office.
3. Communicate screening outcomes to men, providing additional information and support as needed.
4. Handle medical and patient queries, prioritising work and escalating concerns when necessary.
5. Manage incidents and medical emergencies professionally, supporting colleagues when appropriate.
6. Keep relevant staff informed of caseloads and issues, seeking advice when needed.

The role involves access to vulnerable populations and is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, in accordance with legal requirements.

We are seeking candidates willing to train as a technician. The role is suitable for individuals from diverse backgrounds willing to undertake a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, typically completed in 12 months. No prior experience is required, as comprehensive training will be provided to ensure high standards of scanning and patient communication. A full driving license and access to a vehicle are essential, as frequent travel across areas is required.

We value dedicated, motivated, and enthusiastic individuals with a proactive attitude who can work autonomously and possess good organisational skills.

Essential Criteria:

• Clean full driving license
• Access to a vehicle
• Attention to detail
• Good communication skills
• Computer literacy

Desirable Criteria:

• Familiarity with data entry, hospital environment, patient care, and confidentiality
• Understanding of medical terminology
• Experience in healthcare or related fields
• Good educational background (5 GCSEs)
• Specialist training such as NAAASP-approved courses or vascular sonographer training
• NVQ Level 3 in relevant subject

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a major NHS teaching trust providing a wide range of clinical services, education, training, and research. It comprises four hospitals: John Radcliffe, Churchill, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, and Horton General Hospital. Our values emphasize compassion, respect, learning, delivery, improvement, and excellence, aiming to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.

The Thames Valley AAA screening programme targets men aged 65, offering community-based ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms to over 13,000 men.

We are committed to a safe, respectful, and inclusive hiring environment, exemplified by our signing of NHS England’s sexual safety charter, and we seek individuals eager to contribute to our mission of delivering compassionate excellence.