DRTs at this level independently performs difficult complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, and general diagnostic units. 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). 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). NOTE: Details on the Grandfathering Provision are listed in the Assessment Questionnaire section of this announcement. Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates. General Radiologic Technology (R).DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body. They prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with State and Federal regulations. All DRTs must be knowledgeable in computerized [and digital radiography (CR/DR),] and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS). Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-8 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate (ON THE RESUME) all of the following KSAs: (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, visitors, and volunteers.(f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References: VHA Qualification Standards Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Dated 12/13/2019. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS 5 to GS 8. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["Duties are, but not limited to: a. Technologist will operate all radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment; perform all types of radiographic, tomographic and fluoroscopic procedures. b. Technologist will rotate into different radiography rooms in order to maintain knowledge of all procedures and equipment. c. Technologist will independently perform examinations of the head, entire spine, chest, abdomen and extremities. d. Assist radiologists in the difficult complex fluoroscopic examinations. e. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms fistulagrams and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. f. Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. g. Technologist may be required to coordinate work activities of lower grade technologist/students and /or provide guidance as necessary to assure completion of complex examinations. h. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. i. Flexible and knowledgeable in basic procedures in patient reception and file room, providing basic coverage for these areas when necessary. Recording pertinent data for electronic work orders. j. Performs imaging exams using direct radiography (DR). All examinations are processed digitally. k. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Edits when necessary ,registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface (VISTA). Presents completed examinations for interpretation, entering all pertinent information on records as well as documenting fluoroscopy doses on an electronic log sheet. l. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming two approved patient identifiers (such as patient name and full date of birth). Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that images are matched to the correct patient and sent to the correct electronic record, and to insure the correct exam is performed on the correct patient. m. Technologist are required to keep abreast of current technical literature and evaluate new procedures and techniques for the purpose of recommending for consideration changes to the current practices. Technologist will assist in training and orientation of new technologist and/or students in procedures and equipment. n. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done and what, if any, potential adverse effects may be possible. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. o. Performs portable radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x-rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures. p. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner to the supervisor. q. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. Help other technologists when necessary, i.e. difficult or uncooperative patient, heavy workload, etc. Maintain and encourage an environment of teamwork and a positive workplace. r. Maintains current Basic Life Support (BLS) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentialing as required. Maintains current Talent Management System (TMS) training as required. s. Practices infection control according to the Radiology Department policy and facility MCM. Utilizes PPE as necessary. t. Move wheelchair and stretcher patients safely using ergonomic methods of patient transfer, such as sit to stand, ceiling mounted lifts. Work Schedule: Full Time, 1 position for Sunday through Thursday from 3:30 pm to Midnight. 1 position for Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 1:30 pm to Midnight. Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 04320F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
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.
