Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized The incumbent operates as an advanced DRT, specializing approximately 90% of the time in Computed Tomography (CT), 10% in Interventional Radiology. Independently performs standard general imaging as well as complex CT and IR examinations. This includes nonstandard and advanced protocols such as emergency and inpatients, as expected in a 1A High Complexity Medical Center. Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT} (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Mammography (M). Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. [In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.] Education. Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT} or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).] English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Grade Determinations for GS-09: For assignments above full performance lever, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity, and range of variety; these duties must be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities at this level. Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. KSAs at the GS-08 level are: a. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines b. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed c. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results d. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed e. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, and volunteers f. Knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy; recognize unusual images and determine proper positioning to best determine areas of interest. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: a. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures; b. Skill to demonstrate appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers; c. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure; d. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography; e. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions; and f. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: Recent full-time Computed Tomography experience of at least 1 year. Must be ARRT (R) (CT) registered. **On the job training may be provided as needed for Interventional Radiology procedures** References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. Physical Requirements: Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["- Evaluate the nature of critical and emergency orders and rearrange patient schedules to accommodate them. - Assist senior technologists in developing alternate imaging processes. The incumbent will be involved with difficult and intricate techniques (current or new), defining optimal protocols, and devising alternate ways to visualize pathology within the patient. Must be able to set optimum technique and parameters in accordance with new or modified protocols as determined by the radiologist. - Perform CT examinations of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, extremities, and cardiac studies for the purpose of acquiring high quality examinations that assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patient medical disorders using standard and non-standard protocols. - Other critical factors to consider in performance of both imaging disciplines: proper utilization special equipment such as monitors, pulse oximeter, ECG, infusion pumps, oxygen equipment, and respirators inclusive of vital signs and medications used; incumbent must be highly cognizant and knowledgeable of such devices and in their proper use. The incumbent must be familiar with the different types and sizes of IV catheters and ports to safely use for contrast administration. - Understand and utilize 3D A/V rendering application software. Shall perform and demonstrate the ability to perform quality post-procedure reformats and send to PACS. - Prepare the CT or IR systems for daily operation: bring systems up and check all self-calibrating parameters. Clean and prepare equipment surfaces in accordance with established infection control guidelines. - Perform quality assurance testing on the CT and IR units using phantoms, test tools, check lists, etc., for the purpose of assuring peak performance of the equipment. Maintain records of quality assurance testing. - Establish collegial relationships with internal and external customers to include physicians, nursing staff, Biomedical engineers, field service engineers and administrative support staff. - Assist manufacturer representative and biomedical engineers in the calibration and troubleshooting of malfunctions in all equipment associated with the CT or IR systems. - Register patients during check-in and properly edit exams upon completion of work to ensure appropriate workload capture and credit. - -Will be available to work various tours including after-hour, weekend and holiday rotations. Assigned tour may change depending on the needs of the service or medical center. - This position requires rotating on-call duties and overtime for emergency coverage. When in on-call status, the expectation is to respond to the medical center within 60 minutes from the time the call is received. - Actively seeks out work when assigned tasks are finished. Proactively identify administrative, clerical, or mechanical problems, and define solutions. The incumbent accepts duties/assignments outside of his/her normal workstation for purposes of receiving additional training, and to provide needed coverage as determined by his/her supervisor based on patient workload shift/changes and availability of personnel. - Interview patients about their medical history; screen patients prior to exams to evaluate for contraindications to the procedure. Employ safety documents, such as IMED consent or contrast forms. - Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality. Modesty and comfort will be observed for all patients. Work Schedule: Various Tours available, must be available to cover varying tours including after-hour, weekend, and holiday rotations. This will include on-call duties in CT and IR. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 54238-O Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,298 health care facilities, including 171 medical centers and 1,113 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.
