The fully developed advanced DRT-Interventional Radiology Technologist (IR) will assist the interventional radiologist in the performance of routine to complex IR procedures. The incumbent at this level assists with training of new employees under supervision of Radiologists. These exams are minimally invasive procedures using medical imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, computed tomography, or ultrasound equipment. 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). 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).] English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Grade Determinations for GS-09: For assignments above full performance lever, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity, and range of variety; these duties must be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. 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. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities at this level. Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. KSAs at the GS-08 level are: a. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines b. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed c. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results d. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed e. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, and volunteers f. Knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy; recognize unusual images and determine proper positioning to best determine areas of interest. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: a. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures; b. Skill to demonstrate appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers; c. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure; d. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography; e. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions; and f. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: Preferred 2 years of lnterventional Radiology experience. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. Physical Requirements: Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["Include but are not limited to: The IR technologist is responsible for assisting the IR provider in performing interventional, therapeutic, and diagnostic angiography procedures. Exams are often performed with the use of contrast materials and sterile techniques. Confers with radiologists or other healthcare professionals to determine material and equipment requirement of indicated procedures. Determines technical factors, positioning, etc., to produce high quality diagnostic and/or therapeutic studies. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of issues with a patient requiring their immediate attention. Works closely with Imaging Nursing staff to achieve common objectives. Performs limited neurological procedures, including vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, lumbar puncture, and myelogram. This is accomplished using highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as pressure injector, biplane imaging, and 3D reconstruction and 3D needle guidance. Performs peripheral and visceral angiography of the thorax, abdominal systems, and extremities. The exams include but are not limited to: TACE, PAE, UFE, other abdominal embolization, IVC filter placement, IVC filter removal, foreign body retrieval, fistulagram, angioplasty, stent placement, PE thrombectomy, peripheral thrombectomy, tunneled central line placement, mediport placement, arteriogram, and venogram. These involve the use of highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as pressure injectors, biplane imaging, ICE ultrasound, intervascular ultrasound, etc. Such procedures may be performed in the angiography suite, cardiac cath lab, EP lab, or operating room. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic or therapeutic studies of the vascular systems. Performs non-vascular diagnostic and therapeutic exams, these include but are not limited to: sinogram, nephrostomy catheter placement, biliary stent placement, gastrostomy tube placement, imaging guided biopsy, fluid aspiration, drainage catheter placement, catheter change and removal. Such procedures may utilize complex fluoroscopy setup to simple consult and catheter removal in a non-imaging exam room. Performs most exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. This requires \"scrub-in technique,\" preparation of surgical trays, preparation of contrast and other medications, supplying of needles, catheters, and guide wires. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids, chemotherapy agents, and sharps, proper attire and hand washing practices. Confers with radiologists to determine material and equipment requirement of pending procedure. Must anticipate and assist the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. The alertness of the individual is essential to prevent contamination, recognize patient reactions, anticipate technique factor difficulties, etc. Prepares contrast materials. These contrast materials are used in the exams performed in the special procedure area and the technologist must know the effects and reactions to the contrast. Improper use or administration of contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality. Therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material use is possessed by those who prepare it. In addition, technologist must be continuously alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Patient reactions require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient or equipment. Is certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material when necessary. Practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead glasses, lead lined walls, and collimation. Film badges are worn by technologists in compliance with radiation regulations. The incumbent must be aware of and practice safety policies/procedures of the Medical Center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm; Participates in \"on-call\" rotation as assigned. This involves performing emergency Angio Special Procedures for patients with the interventional radiologist. This requires the technician to verbally respond within 15 minutes from receipt of call so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. \"On-call\" will be performed on a rotational basis and technologist is required to report to hospital within one hour of notification. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 554-52735-A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

Return to Search Results