The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT) has overall responsibility for the coordination and performance of the Computed Tomography areas. These exams are performed on the following body parts but not limited to neuro, extremities, body, and vascular. Certain exams are performed with and without contrast. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment and provide overall safety.
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). 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) Credentialing Standards. Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). 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: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT), GS-09 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. Examples of experience include: performing a full range of duties but receive guidance and directions regarding unfamiliar or unusual situations for more complex patient issues; qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSAs). 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 GS-09. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work require extended periods of sitting, moderate walking, and standing. Work involves constant bending, lifting, twisting, and carrying moderately heavy items. Requires moderate lifting, usually less than 50 lbs. The work requires pushing wheelchair and stretcher patients. Positioning patients who are disabled on the stretcher requires considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Lifting of totally incapacitated patients is done only with the help of lifts and/or other employees.
Major duties include, but are not limited to: Manages clinic schedule to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for urgent cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the urgent care patient who may need immediate treatment. Has direct communication with radiologist to determine if exam is within the proper protocol and/or ordered appropriately. Performs exams utilizing sterile techniques when appropriate. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques; the storage of sterile supplies; the proper disposal of needles/sharps; proper attire and proper hand washing practices. Responsible for the preparation and administration of intravenous injection or oral contrast material. The technologist must have a thorough understanding of contrast materials including the effects of and reactions to contrast media. Performs image reconstructions on advanced workstations as directed by the radiologist or based on departmental protocol. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients or their representative. Continually reviews new developments in the field of computed tomography including The Joint Commission (TJC) and other regulatory agency standards. Responsible for the daily QA/QC duties in the CT section, including CT optimization and ongoing QA/QC logs. Assists and updates QA plan under the direction of the Radiology Supervisor as appropriate. Interviews patient obtaining pertinent medical history as it pertains to the procedure to be performed. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:30pm Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 91384-A