The incumbent's primary responsibilities are in the performance of Computerized Tomographic (CT) examinations. Independently performs computerized tomography of the head, neck spine, chest, body, and extremities. The purpose of the work is to provide CT studies for doctors to use in diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of defects and diseases.
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) duties performed independently, as applicable]. 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) NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: Computed Tomography (CT). This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations. The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination; to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and inter relationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify appearing on the digital display monitor, or on film, and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician. [DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification] GS9: Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist 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, clinical instruction, and basic QM type duties within the program. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*) i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is 8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of 9 . Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
DUTIES: Schedules exams in a manner to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patient who may need immediate emergency surgery, etc. Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number, and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning. Schedules patients for examinations. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results. Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention. Ensures all images and associated series are transmitted to the PACS immediately upon completion. Performs computerized axial angiography exams per protocols. Performs reconstructions of CT angiography studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. Responsible for routine monitoring and stocking of all CT supplies and related materials to ensure optimal inventory levels. Adheres to infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and sharps; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education. Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. The technician must be certain that the patient I.D. band and the request are identical. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming at least two identifiers: patient name, full date of birth or social security number Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes the proper registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system, copying of images (to PACS, CD or film), logging patients on the HIS-RIS work list. Checks patient's record in CPRS prior to administrating contrast, annotates record as needed in CPRS. In addition, completes ePERs and assists with clerical duties as needed. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Available Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Available PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized