The Imaging department requires that the incumbent possess specific knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and its application in spiral, helical and multi-slice computed tomography, inclusive of volume rendering, 3-D imaging, Maximum Intense Projection (MIP) imagery in addition to Multi-Planar reconstruction (MPR). 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). 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, GS-9 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. 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. Preferred Experience: One year scanning experience post ARRT Credentialing highly preferred. Recent CT program graduates will be given consideration. Reference: Formerly referred to as; VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-9. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service. ["Advanced modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and its application in spiral, helical and multi-slice computed tomography, inclusive of volume rendering, 3-D imaging, Maximum Intense Projection (MIP) imagery in addition to Multi-Planar reconstruction (MPR). Employee is trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to advanced modalities as well as performing general diagnostic and interventional procedures. At this level employee requires specific skills and training in the location, appearance and function of the various organ systems, physiological systems a wide range of injuries and diseases associated with them. Capable of performing routine and complex CT examinations, as well as a basic understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. Perform peripheral, visceral and cerebral angiography using bolus tracking, cardiac gating (prospective and retrospective gating techniques). Possess written and verbal communications skills to explain sensitive information clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, including non-medical people. Remain current with knowledge of imaging technology, procedures, local policies, VA Directives, TJC Compliance and pertinent guidelines. Identify, evaluate and resolve problems by selecting appropriate solutions from established options, to include ability to assess factors that may contraindicate a procedure. Confers with Radiologists and other clinical staff to interpret all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness, and assessment of protocol based on clinical indication, research of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and patient presentation. Maintains a thorough knowledge of the ordering process in the EMR, reviews the screening and contrast assessment forms for accuracy, employs the use of Pregnancy Screening Forms and Consent forms as required by policy, and researches all questionable information prior to initiating the exam. Applies infection control practices for all procedure, as mandated by Medical Center and Radiology Service Infection Control policies, to include performing exams utilizing aseptic techniques, minimizing hazards associated with invasive procedures, and proper disposition of all Reusable Medical Equipment (RME), and disposal of bodily fluids, sharps and other clean up as required. Implements radiation safety practices such as \"As Low As Reasonably Achievable\" (ALARA), actively participates in dose reduction and optimization processes and exercises good judgment when evaluating diagnostic quality versus artifacts and anomalies that may require repeat exposures. Be cognizant of changes in patient's appearance, signs and symptoms of distress. Be continuously on alert for contrast allergies, IV extravasations, changes in mental statuses, patient's mobility and abilities. Champions Safe Patient Handling and Mobility initiatives and guidelines, to include use of patient transfer equipment/resources and advocates for others to employ safe patient handling practices. Autonomous regulation and completion of all Talent Management System (TMS) training, Biennial Continuing Education requirements, Continuing Qualifications Requirements (ARRT CQR), America Heart Association Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) standards All other duties as assigned. Total Rewards: Total-Rewards-of-an-Allied-Health-VA-Career-Brochure.pdf Work Schedule: 4:00pm-12:00am- Monday- Friday. This position will be required to be on-call Weekends, Evenings, Nights and Federal Holidays. Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience. Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: No eligible for Telework Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #:619-764-FS Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized"]
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at 1,321 health care facilities, including 172 VA Medical Centers and 1,138 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics) to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program. VHA Medical Centers provide a wide range of services including traditional hospital-based services such as surgery, critical care, mental health, orthopedics, pharmacy, radiology and physical therapy. In addition, most of our medical centers offer additional medical and surgical specialty services including audiology & speech pathology, dermatology, dental, geriatrics, neurology, oncology, podiatry, prosthetics, urology, and vision care. Some medical centers also offer advanced services such as organ transplants and plastic surgery.