The Gastroenterology Technicians assist the providers in routine and advanced level endoscopic procedures, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), colonoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and bronchoscopy. This position requires flexibility in schedule and assignments, as procedures occasionally run longer than expected, and emergent cases may happen while staff are still on shift. There is an on-call requirement for this position.
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. English Language Proficiency. Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part. Education. There are no specific educational requirements for this occupation. Education may be substituted for experience only at the GS-4 and GS-5 levels. See the grade requirements part of this standard for information regarding educational substitutions. Licensure or Certification-Documentation Submitted. Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation; however, it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. For certain functional areas at the higher levels or supervisory assignments, specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated in this standard under "Titles and Certification/Registrations". Grandfathering Provision: 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 REQUIREMENTS Titles and Certifications/Registrations: Gastroenterology (GI) Technicians assist the practitioner in endoscopic procedures, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), colonoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and endoscopic ultrasound. The technicians ensure proper performance of equipment, set up equipment, and reprocess endoscopic reusable medical equipment (RME). Certification is offered by the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA) for level one and level two training. GI endoscope reprocessing certification is offered through the Certification Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Gastroenterology (GI) Technician, GS-06: Experience. At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the duties of the position to be filled. NOTE: In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Ability to set up endoscopy equipment, ensuring endoscopes and ancillary equipment functions properly. Ability to aid the physician with standard and routine procedures such as colonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Knowledge of medical terminology and human anatomy in order to assist practitioner with routine standardized gastroenterology procedures. Ability to interact with patients explaining procedures and positioning the patient for the procedure, recognizing disabilities or impaired mobility and assisting the patient as necessary. Ability to reprocess and maintain specialty critical reusable medical equipment (RME), following approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and universal precautions. Ability to use basic computer systems and programs to record patient and endoscopic data, adhering to patient privacy and information security policies. Ability to manually clean and disinfect non-critical reusable equipment and surfaces, dispose of one- time-use equipment and trash per facility policy, and restock supplies such as linens, suction equipment, and cleaning products. Gastroenterology (GI) Technician, GS-07 (Full Performance Level): Experience. At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the duties of the position to be filled. This would be experience which provided knowledge of proper performance of endoscopic equipment and procedures. NOTE: In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of endoscopic equipment and use in basic and complex endoscopic procedures. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology related to the GI system, with ability to recognize and report obvious abnormalities during procedures. Ability to assist physician with specialized, complex procedures. Knowledge of universal precautions and disinfection techniques and ability to follow SOP's to clean reusable medical equipment (RME). Ability to collaborate, communicate, and demonstrate customer service skills and interpersonal skills with all healthcare professionals to ensure quality and continuity of care. Ability to use basic computer systems and programs to record patient and endoscopic data, adhering to patient privacy and information security policies. Ability to deliver patient care, including vital sign measurements and medication administration. Preferred Experience: Two years of current Gastroenterology (GI) experience. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-07. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-07. Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
Gastroenterology (GI) Technician duties may include, but not limited to the following: Serves as subject matter expert for knowledge and handling of instruments, supplies, and equipment during GI procedures. Prepares, organizes, and maintains highly complex GI set ups. Prepares procedural rooms in a timely manner for performance of GI/bronchoscopy procedures. Demonstrates advanced knowledge of complex and non-standard treatment and examination procedures and techniques. Demonstrates the ability to plan and assist in the establishment of completely integrated treatment and examination programs. Demonstrates ability to provide briefings and orientations, staff development and training to hospital staff including physicians. Assist with training and mentoring other technicians, nurses, nursing students, medical students, residents, and fellows. Observes and responds promptly to each stage of the GI procedures and anticipates the needs of the physician and/or registered nurse. Utilizes universal precautions and follows all infection control policies and procedures when handling specimens, supplies, equipment. Applies various monitoring equipment, i.e. BP/O2 sat/ ECG, etc., when assisting with patient preparation. Responsible for the accountability of all GI instruments and equipment during GI procedures. Demonstrates ability to assess processed image media for technical quality, and patient identification, ensuring that all relative anatomy is demonstrated. Ensures medications are properly labeled and available for physician administration. Demonstrates functional knowledge of the medications used, appropriate doses and side effects. Assists the physician, and/or registered nurse with instrumentation necessary to perform the required procedure and treatment such as obtaining biopsies, brushings, performing polypectomies, inflation of balloon dilators, injection of contrast solutions and other agents during GI procedures. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm (On Call) Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 81919F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized