*A Recruitment/Relocation incentive has been authorized for this position for Highly Qualified Applicants* The incumbent's principal responsibilities are to independently perform general radiographic technology (R), Computed Technology (CT), Dexa Scan, and Interventional Radiography (IR) procedures at the full performance level for the patients of the VA NWI-Health Care System as well as other duties necessary for functionality of the imaging department. 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). Certification. 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 Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Grade Determinations: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10 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. Balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. Assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures. At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 10. Physical Requirements: Positioning a variety of patients requires heavy lifting (must be able to lift 45lbs or more) and body alignment. Standing, walking and sitting for a variety of time is required. The work required in Ct does require periods of wearing a protective lead apron weighing approximately 4-9 pounds, which causes both weight strain and heat building up due to its wrap around nature. These procedures can require incumbent to stand with lead on for long periods of time. ["The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being. This is an open continuous announcement until August 31,2023. Qualified applicants will be considered and referred as vacancies become available. Major Duties: General radiographic procedures including portable, fluoroscopy, c-arm procedures and Dexa. Computed imaging including the chest, abdomen, pelvis, head, extremities, neck as well cystograms and scans for clinical research initiatives. ECG-gated CT angiography studies and CTA studies of the head, neck, thorax, abdomen and extremities. Interventional procedures in conjunction with the interventional radiology team including but not limited to biopsies, cryoablations, abscess drainages, joint injections, and tube placements. Transfer patients from stretcher or wheelchair to radiographic, CT or lR exam table and assist with the transporting of patients to other areas of the hospital. Prepares pre-procedural activities including room preparation, arrangement of equipment, and material needed for patient procedures. The incumbent will have a knowledge of ultrasound machine operation, sterile prep of probes and cleaning probes. Provides training to student radiographers from affiliated programs and facilitates the attainment of established program objectives Prepares oral, rectal, and injectable contrast and other contrast materials as necessary. Inserts peripheral intravenous catheters for the administration of IV contrast and removes the IV post-procedure when required. Administer contrast material under the direction of the radiologist, according to protocols. Utilizes P1CC lines, central lines, mid-lines, and infusaports per device guidelines for the administration of IV contrast. Follows prescribed protocols required to independently perform simple to complex procedures. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm with rotating on-call schedule Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Highly Qualified Applicants 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.